Do It Yourself: Strength Training
Just about every new mother itching to get back in shape can benefit from the core-stregthening exercises and diet program our experts outlined for Mann. Start with one set of 10 reps, and work up to three sets of 12. Where noted, use a weighted ball to boost intensity.
- Kick-Drop Squat
Stand with your legs hip-width apart, arms at sides. Bend your right knee and raise it to your left hip. Place your right foot back down and drop a squat, knees aligned over feet, arms out straight. Hold for three seconds. Do 10 reps, then repeat for the left side.
- Lunge & Chop
Stand with your legs shoulder-width apart, holding a fitness ball over your head. Step your right leg forward into a lunge. "Chop" down over the bent knee, bringing the ball to your right hip. Step out of the lunge. Do 10 reps, then repeat on the left side.
- Kick Crunch
Lying on the floor and holding a fitness ball, stretch your arms above your head, elbows at ears. Raise your shoulders and right leg until they meet in a V formation, with your leg at a 90-degree angle. Drop your legs and arms to a resting position. Do 10 reps, then repeat for the left side.
- Reverse Bowling
Secure a fitness band to a doorknob. Grasp it with your right hand, elbow bent at a 90-degree angle. Lunge back with your right leg, straightening the arm downward. Step up and out of the lunge. Do 10 reps, then repeat for the left side.
- John Travolta
Secure a fitness band to a door bottom. Drop to a semisquat, knees bent, and grasp it with your right hand. Stand, stepping out a few feet to the right, and raise your arm above your head. Do 10 reps, then repeat for the left side.
