One of the best workouts is also one of the safest and – bonus – least expensive. All it takes is a few mini-bands, which you can buy online or in a sporting goods store.
“These exercises are a fantastic way to get muscles firing as they should, where perhaps they have been along for the ride, not quite pulling their weight,” says Kevin Taylor, a coach at Orangetheory Fitness.
Since they’re low impact, they are easy on the joints. And they are designed to strengthen your
core, which will make all of your movements safer, whether you’re running, bending or just getting something out of your cupboard.
1. PLANK TOE TAP
Place a midlevel band around your calves. Get in a plank position with your elbows beneath your shoulders. Extend one leg at a time, tap your foot, then return to the starting position. Do 10 reps.
2. ISO SQUAT FRONT WALK
Place a midlevel band just below your knees. Sit low in a squat position and lift through your chest, with your weight in your heels. Keep your feet wide apart. Take three steps forward and back. Do 5 reps.
3. FRONT RAISE
Place the lowest-level band just above your wrists. Pull your shoulders back, feel your scapulas pinch together and bring your arms in line with your shoulders and lower them. Go slow. Do 10 reps.
