Do try this at home: Step-ups

Perfect compromise exercise if you are short of time or lack motivation to brave the cold outdoors.

Why do it?

Perfect compromise exercise if you are short of time or lack motivation to brave the cold outdoors.

Method

Find a step about the same depth as a household stair, and simply step up with left foot, up with right, down with left and down with right, keeping a comfortable rhythm. Change leading leg after 30 seconds and rest after two minutes. To increase difficulty, follow the same pattern but use slightly larger step, increase speed slightly and only swap leading leg after one minute. Keep top half of body upright by working stomach muscles; chest should not flop down towards thighs. When ready for advanced stages, either find larger step, bench, or step up two stairs at a time. Don't be tempted to push arms off thighs to help you up. Step up and down briskly for a minute, then change leading leg. Rest for 30 seconds between each two minutes, and complete four sets for each leg.

Application

Good cardiovascular workout, helps to tone up your legs and bum.

Jeff Archer