Tone: Bridge Series

On busy days, when time is  nonexistent  I find myself wishing for a magical exercise routine. A routine that could reduce and prevent back pain; while strengthening and toning the paraspinal muscles, the quadriceps, the hamstrings, the abdominal, and the gluteal muscles. A workout I could squeeze in anywhere and still achieve results. 

Luckily, the pelvic bridge is that magic exercise. Bridge work is popular with trainers and pilates instructors for its strengthening perks, with physical therapists as a back injury rehabilitation exercise, as well as with sex experts, and new mothers, for the moves added perk of strengthening the pelvic floor. 

Bridge work tones your ass, legs, and abs.

The bridge helps alleviate back pain by stretching out the hip flexers, and engaging the back muscles. When in a bridge pose you can concentrate on and feel the alignment of your body allowing you the foresight to concentrate on posture. This bridge series is a challenging workout designed for tone maximization.  

Fishing For Abs

If just last week someone had told me that they dreamt of having: "A core like a fisherman," I would have laughed (much like a mad scientist on the eve on an evil discovery)... Or, I would have handed them a six-pack and told them to start drinking.

But; that was last week, before I was enlightened by the necessary athleticism that accompanies sport fishing. While at Rancho Leonero, I have joined my father on a few fishing (and toastada eating) expeditions. I personally prefer lounging by the pool and sipping margaritas while indulging my fantasies in a 50 Shades of Grey novel. Fishing is hard work, it takes mental strength as well as physical strength. Sport fishing is a full mind and body workout.

I was able to catch a rooster fish. He played a very frustrating game of tug-a-war with me. My arms, and my core are stiff and sore from the battle of wills mine vs. the fish. (The fish was released back into the ocean, and swam away with a smile on his face).

My fishing experience has made me grateful for my dedication to The Tracy Anderson Method. Without the daily core focused workout I would never have been able to put up a fight against the alarming strong rooster fish. Nor, would I be so proud to show of my "fisherman core" in a bikini.

For the core of a fisherman, I've posted my daily abs routine. Make it a part of your workout.  The workout is only 10 minutes.

Sweat: Greener

I saw an interesting article on Recycle Bank last week that highlighted the energy saving benefits of running outside vs. inside on a treadmill. The article stated that if just half off all Nike+ users ran outside instead of on a treadmill for a week enough energy would be saved to power Seattle.

 I find the statement hard to believe, as the research was one sided and funded by a zealous environmental group. Regardless, running out side is such a joy. Especially when the weather is nice. Mix up your cardio: go for a run. 

Then come back and tone your legs/core with me in an easy 15 minute routine. All you need for the my workout is a toning ball (which can be purchased on line Tracyandersonmethod.com).  Bikini season is almost here. Flaunt your assets with confidence, and get your ass is shape.