Every bride dreams of walking down the aisle slim and trim and looking stunning. While there are no quick fixes, proper diet and exercise will make you look and feel your best, for your wedding day and every day! Here are some basic exercises for shaping and toning your body. Consult a Doctor before beginning any exercise program, and remember: it takes approximately 6 to 8 weeks to see real results, so plan ahead! Before starting out, make sure to have on comfortable exercise clothes, a mat, a towel, and plenty of water to drink.
Thighs (Squats)
1. Get in a comfortable upright stance with your feet shoulder width apart. Your toes should be either pointed straight ahead or slightly outward, never inward or knee strain will result).
2. Focus your vision straight ahead. Do not tilt your head backwards or raise your eyes in your head as this will disrupt your balance.
3. Place the barbell squarely on your traps and shoulders (not the neck) and grip the bar comfortably with your hands slightly wider than your shoulders.
4. Keeping your heels planted firmly on the floor, inhale and move your butt back and downward. Do not start by bending the knees.
5. Continue downward, by bending the knees, but be careful not to allow your knees to move forward. This will save you stress on your knees.
6. When the thighs reach parallel, begin exhaling and return to the starting position. There should be no sideways movement, especially in the knee or hip area.
Abs (For upper and lower belly, crunches)
Start Position: Basic Crunch
Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet resting flat on the floor. Your neck and head should be relaxed with your hands at the sides of your head.
The Movement
Using your upper abs, curl your upper torso so your shoulder blades lift off the floor. As you curl up using your abs, your sternum (chest bone) should be aimed toward your bellybutton. At the top, contract the abs intensely and then slowly lower your torso, lightly touching your shoulder blades to the floor. Repeat.
Arms (Basic stretching and toning movement; use light weights as desired)
Bend one arm at the elbow and let it drop easily to the mat. Do the same exercise with the other arm. Take a deep breath and exhale slowly through your mouth. This also works your back, and is good for your spine!
Cardio (For endurance and fat burning)
Top 10 Cardio exercises: Running, Walking, Cross Country Skiing, Biking, Swimming, Step-Aerobics, Rowing, Handball, Rock Climbing, and Elliptical Trainers. Most of these activities can be done in a gym, at home, or outside. While some require special equipment, others (like walking and running) simply require a good pair of shoes.
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