I haven’t bought a single maternity clothing item this time around. And I really didn’t have much during my first pregnancy either. Call me cheap – whatever. I’ll sport my shorts sitting way too low, exposing the bottom part of my tummy like a a bad plumber’s crack scene. Luckily for all the pregnant ladies of the world, legs don’t need special maternity clothing. So expose them – prego or not! And do this one simple move for insanely toned legs.
This barre-inspired isometric move will not disappoint. I’m telling you, if you want to work your legs in a way you never thought possible, THIS IS IT. Squats are great and all, but if you want to work ALL the muscles, big AND little, you have to do is one simple move for insanely toned legs. Plus it’s a lower impact workout than most lower body exercises.
The best part? You can do this anywhere, any time. No really, ANY time. Got two minutes while brushing your teeth? Do it. Two minutes may seem short, but it will feel like forever doing this leg-sculpting move. Or try it while doing dishes, watching TV, waiting for your husband (oh wait, he’s always waiting for me) – bottom line, just do it all the time. Here’s how:
To start, stand with your feet hip-distance apart. If you’ve never done a barre workout before, or this move is new to you, use the back of a sturdy chair or hold the end of a countertop for stability. Lift your heels and roll up on the balls of your feet, then bend your knees as low as you can for a good challenge.
Now you have two options:
Keep your knees bent, heels high, and hold in this position for a set amount of time (start at 30 seconds and build up). If you aren’t feeling challenged, lower your body closer to the floor. You make start shaking or feel burning in your legs. That means it’s working!
For an added challenge, keep your body as low as possible then push yourself lower 1 – 2 inches closer to the ground, then back to the original position. Continue to execute these very small, controlled pulses.
Once you have mastered your form and can do this for an extended period of time, try taking a balance by releasing your hands from the surface you are using to stabilize your body.
Keep your heels high the entire time. This will keep focus not only on your thighs, but calves too. If you feel your heels lower to the ground, try to lessen the bend in your knees so that you can keep your heels lifted.
Make sure your feet and knees are parallel to the front the entire time. Your weight should be distributed on the balls of your feet.
Be mindful not to stick your butt out behind your body and push your belly forward. You may be able to tell if you are doing this if you feel like you are leaned forward slightly. Stand upright with your hips stacked directly under your shoulders.