We know a healthy diet and exercise are great for numerous reasons, but attenuating the appearance of aging skin may be another great reason! Get your blood pumping, and keep that youthful glow about you with these workouts that can be done anywhere, at any challenge level.

Push-ups (total body, arms)

Not only will push-ups get you closer arms that are Gwyneth Paltrow-worthy, they will tone parts of your body that you would not expect like the core, the buttocks, and the back. You can customize this to your fitness level, starting with push-ups against a wall, next increasing difficulty to the “modified plank,” done on the knees, and finally graduating to the traditional push-up on a flat surface. Completing reps of 5-20 is plenty for someone starting out. You’ll be surprised how easy these become after doing a few each day!

The plank (total body)

This is a personal trainer favorite, as it tones multiple areas of the body simultaneously, just like the pushup. There are also many variations to the classic plank if you need a challenge. For that extra umph, I alternate lifting one limb at a time while holding the plank pose.

Reverse Crunches (Core Stability)

This is a personal trainer favorite, as it tones multiple areas of the body simultaneously, just like the pushup. There are also many variations to the classic plank if you need a challenge. For that extra umph, I alternate lifting one limb at a time while holding the plank pose.

Sumo-Squats (Inner Thighs)

Less stressful on the knees than traditional knees-forward squats, the wide-stance “sumo squat” targets the inner thigh area, usually an area of concern for women, who store more fat there. You will feel these the next day, and they are a great exercise to do to get ready for leggings season. Carry weights for added intensity! Do 2 sets of 15-25 repetitions.

Back Work

Nothing is sexier than a toned back, especially for the warmer months! Try doing back extension work by lifting your torso or legs (or both!) off the floor while in the prone position. You can play with your arm positions by keeping them by your side, out to the side, or extend in front of the body like a superman pose. Hold for 10 second increments. Make sure to keep your eye gaze on the floor, so you do not strain the neck muscles. It’s all about the back!

Lying Leg Lifts (Outer Thigh)

These will work to tone and slim the legs and buttocks. Lying on the side is doable for all levels and is highly effective, as the number of reps you do is totally customizable! I aim for 50 on each side, breaking it up by 2 alternating sets of 25 reps for each leg.

Weight Up

Whether you use dumbbells, kettlebells, angle weights, or resistance bands, adding weight or resistance to simple workouts can kick up the notch on intensity, so you can spend less time at the gym and still get a super-effective workout. Weight training is known to increase your muscle mass, and with increased muscle mass, the body is able to burn off the fat more effectively. It is a no brainer- always incorporate some light weight training into your weekly workout schedule.

Face Massage

No, this is not a new type of workout, but it will help your skin appear smoother over time! If you have gotten a facial before, you may notice that they sometimes massage the facial muscles. This doesn’t only feel amazing, but it allows the blood to travel closer to the skin’s surface, creating greater cell stimulation for those areas. Over time, you may notice a more detoxified, smooth look. Rub easily-wrinkled areas, such as the forehead and cheeks in a circular motion. Indulge your skin with a face massage before using a weekly exfoliant ask or before using your daily cleanser.

Surprise yourself with your own strength! Think of a fabulous reward for proving yourself so strong. Complete the youth-exuding workout by using your RapidLash®, an eyelash and eyebrow serum that will complement your newly toned and tight muscles perfectly! You go!

C.C.