Author: Shannon Boyce
You’ve got to start somewhere. Even the most athletic people in the world were beginners at some point! If you’re trying to improve your level of fitness and get healthy, there is no time to lose. Starting something new can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. The key is to ease your way into it as you gain your footing. To help you do just that, try these 2 essential exercises for beginners.
The Modified Push Up
It’s time to start your exercise routine…. but where to begin? How about with a push up? This is a pretty basic move but it is also very effective at toning your arms, chest, shoulders, and even your core. That makes it an absolute must! A traditional push up can seem pretty challenging to a beginner. Thankfully, this move can be modified in a couple of ways. If you’re really new to working out, stand in front of a wall with your arms shoulder-width apart. Put your hands flat against the wall and take a giant step back. Bend your elbows and lean into the wall. Push your body back and repeat 10 to 15 times. Doing it this way will take some of pressure off of your arms and core but it will still help you build up your muscles and endurance!
Another way you can do it? Get down on your knees with your hands in front of you, shoulder-width apart. Push yourself towards the ground and then back up. This is slightly more difficult than the modified wall push up, so work your way up to this next modification.
How to do a modified pushup video
The Chair Squat
For this next easy exercise, you’ll need to grab a sturdy chair for balance. Why? The chair squat is a modification of a traditional squat. Using a chair takes some of the pressure off of your legs by giving you something to grab onto. This move is a great place to start because works so many muscle groups, including your lower body, like thighs, hips, and glutes. To perform this exercise, start by standing in front of a turned around chair, with your feet shoulder-width apart. Reach your arms out in front of you and grab onto the very top of that chair. Then you want to bend your legs, keeping your head raised throughout the move. Move down into a squat position and push yourself back up either on your own or with a little help from that chair! Repeat this move 10 to 15 times until it becomes easier for you to do. Once you feel confident, you can ditch the chair and go a little lower into your squat.
When you’re just beginning get in shape, start small. It is important to have the basic moves down pat before you progress any further. This will prevent injuries and help you to build your confidence. With these essentials, you’ll be able to add onto what you know and make the moves even more challenging as your fitness improves. It’s only a matter of time!
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