No one wants their body to look disproportionate. We’ve all seen people at the beach or on the boardwalk that have muscular, toned upper bodies, but are sporting tiny, chicken legs and calves. Don’t skip out of Leg Day — leg workouts can help improve more than just leg strength. It can also help your core strength, cardio health and help improve overall endurance. Looking for the best exercises to build strong, chiseled legs? Read on!
Strengthen Legs with these Exercises
The first and most obvious is the Back Squat. This is considered by athletes and strength coaches to be the best leg workout you can do. The back squat is one of the most beneficial lifts you can master. Squatting will not only help you develop leg, calve and hip strength, but also promote full-body mobility and stability. If you are looking to build muscle, burn fat, and get strong, adding squats to your weekly program is a must.
Next up is the Barbell/Kettlebell Lunge. This strength training exercise can be done with a barbell across your back. Another common option is holding kettle bells at your side. This exercise is one of the most effective and most problematic leg exercises-if done incorrectly. It places a lot of tension throughout your lower body (knees, hips, lower back, etc.) and core, while accelerating muscle strength and definition. The benefits of doing this exercise one leg at a time are countless, you will develop better coordination and eliminate muscle imbalance.
Lastly is the Standing Calf Raise. This specific exercise works the calf muscles in the lower legs. It can be done on a calf raise machine or freestanding using just your bodyweight. Lift your heels until you’re standing on your tippy-toes. Distribute most of your weight onto the balls of your feet and keep your legs straight. If you don’t have access to a machine, you can easily do this at home. Simply step onto anything that is raised from the floor like steps, books, or blocks.
All exercises should be done correctly with perfect form. Developing bad habits will lead to lack of progress or a nagging injuries. Many, if not all the exercises will be new to you. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to ask one of our training professionals.
Looking for the best personal trainers in New Jersey? No better place than Jersey Strong!
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