Spring break. Those two words mean a lot! They mean beaches, boys, and bikinis. Those three things together can be a nightmare if you’re not comfortable in your skin. We are all hitting the gym more than ever right now, because we want to tone our bodies for spring break after our holiday binge-eating. Who wouldn’t want a tight tush and a flat stomach for spring break? We have pulled together some workouts from a trusted fitness magazine to help you get the ideal spring break body.
ABS
Shape magazine got in contact with Victoria’s Secret model Marisa Miller to find out how she keeps her abs flat and toned. Marisa’s Super-Model Worthy Ab Workout is an effective ab workout that is sure to bring results.
You must do 3 sets of each move three times a week, with no more than a 30 second break in between moves.
You will need 2 5-pound weights, a Bosu balance trainer, and a mat. (All available for your use at the UCF Gym.)
Plank Progression
This move works the core of the body, and requires the Bosu balance trainer. You must get into the plank position on the round side of the Bosu ball, and hold for 30 seconds. Then you turn to the left, balancing on your right arm, and stagger your feet with your left arm in the air. Hold for 30 seconds. Then switch to the other side.
Standing Crutch
This move requires 15-25 reps, and 3 sets. You will need 2 5-pound free weights.
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding a dumbbell in each hand in front of your chest. Pull in your abs and lean forward to the right for 15-25 reps. Repeat to the left.
Burpee
This move works the whole body, including the abs. You will need a mat for this exercise.
Get into plank position on the mat, but with your arms fully extended. Hop feet forward, then jump up into the air with your hands raised. Continue for 1 minute.
TUSH
Shape magazine feature The Ultimate Butt Workout. This workout is split into 2 groups. You must perform 20 reps of each move in one group in order, and repeat twice. Take a 1-minute break in between the two workout groups.
You will need a pair of 5-pound dumbbells, a 6 to 8-pound medicine ball, and a bench.
Dead Lift
Stand with feet slightly apart, and a dumbbell in each hand. Let the weights pull your arms down. Bend over until your legs and back are at a 90 degree angle. Lift up 45 degrees, using your butt to pull your weight up.
Leaning Lunge Combo
Hold a dumbbell in each hand, and lunge forward with your right leg, letting your left knee touch the ground. Straighten your right leg, and raise your left leg behind you. Alternate sides.
Curtsy Lunge Lift
Place hands on the wall, and stand about 2 feet away from it. Keep feet hip-width apart and arms in front of you. Take your right foot and step it back to the left and lunge with your hips bent. Then straighten the left left as you raise your right leg. Switch sides.
Mogul
Hold the medicine ball in front of your chest. Stand with feet shoulder width apart. Squat and keep your upper body still. Raise your hips a couple inches, lower them, and repeat.
Single-Leg Squat Push
Hug the medicine ball in front of your chest. Lift your left leg up, balancing on your right foot. Lean forward with your right leg bent, and straighten the right leg while keeping your left leg raised. Switch sides.
Balay Batu
ACTIVEWEAR
Coming back for spring semester, I know that we all have our New Year’s Resolutions, and I bet most of yours is to go to the gym more often. So if you wanna lose a couple pounds for SB’11, why not do it in style? Here are a couple tips for you to look good at the gym as well as feel good about yourself. Hey, whatever it takes to get over to the Rec Center, right?
Even if its a baggy t-shirt or a cute sports top, the main goal when to dress for the gym is to be comfortable. You don't want to work out in something too tight or too flashy, because you will become more self-conscious rather than focusing on a good workout. Remember, spandex is a privilege, not a right. No one wants to see a muffin top at the gym. Try wearing fabrics which are loose, soft, and breathable for you to enjoy your workout. Forever 21 has a great collection of cute tanks and leggings for you to be comfortable at the gym.
Performance Sports Top, $13.80, Forever21
Capri Athletic Pant, $15.80, Forever21
Basic Sports Bra, $10.80, Forever21
Kelsey Haddock