Stand with feet a little less than shoulder-width apart and slightly bend knees. Hold dumbbells so arms are vertical to the floor. Slide weights over knees as you slowly stand up straight, keeping spine strong. Slowly return to starting position.. Photography by Mel Koutchavlis
Lie on your back with knees bent, feet flat on floor. Straighten one leg.. Photography by Mel Koutchavlis
Place one foot flat on a step with other foot a good distance behind you, heel off the floor.. Photography by Mel Koutchavlis
Aim for at least 10 repetitions of the following two exercises to tone your arms and shoulders. If you don’t have free weights, use canned food or water-filled bottles.. Photography by Mel Koutchavlis
This is one of the best toning exercises you can do: It strengthens your upper body as well as your core. Whether you do them on your toes or on your knees, keep your body in a straight line (don’t sag in the middle) by holding your abs tight.. Photography by Mel Koutchavlis
Lift dumbbells up and towards stomach. Return to starting position and repeat. Be sure to keep back firm, head up, and shoulders back throughout this exercise.. Photography by Mel Koutchavlis
This strengthens your core and improves upper-body tone. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart.. Photography by Mel Koutchavlis
Lower your body straight down and then back up. Repeat with other foot.. Photography by Mel Koutchavlis
Lift hips off the ground and hold until you fatigue. Gently lower hips and repeat on other side.. Photography by Mel Koutchavlis
Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and with knees slightly bent. Bend forward at waist. Start with arms fully extended, allowing weights to hang at approximately midshin level.. Photography by Mel Koutchavlis
Hold weights slightly wider than your shoulders, at shoulder height. Press weights above your head, then slowly lower.. Photography by Mel Koutchavlis
