By: Ashley Luckee Lead Copywriter at Total Life Changes
GIF Credit: gfycat.com
1. Toe Touch
A toe touch stretch is a great way to stretch the muscles at the back of your legs. Stand with some space in front and behind you. Bend at your waist, while keeping your legs straight. Hold this for 10 to 20 seconds.
GIF Credit: gfycat.com
2. Chest Presses (upper body)
Chest presses are a classic exercise that is used to strengthen your chest, shoulders, and arms. Start with lying on a bench with your feet on the floor. Pull your shoulders down and press them into the bench. Hold two dumbbells with your palms facing forward and wrap your thumbs around the handle. On your inhale, lower the dumbbells a little wider than your mid-chest. Gently touch the dumbbells to your chest, and on an exhale press your arms upward, keep elbows slightly bent. Return the dumbbells to your eye level, and repeat.
GIF Credit: gfycat.com
3. Jumping Jacks (total body)
Jumping jacks are a great way to warm up your entire body during your workout and also get your heart rate up. To do a jumping jack, start standing with your arm at your sides. Bend your knees slightly and jump upwards. As you jump, spread your legs and arms to be about shoulder-width apart, with your arms over your head. Jump back to your starting position.
GIF Credit: gfycat.com
4. Side Plank Hip Drops (Core)
Side plank hip drops are a perfect exercise to increase your core strength and shrink your waistline. To begin, lay on the floor in a side plank position. Bring your hip down without touching the floor, and bring it back up to the starting positions. Repeat, switching sides.
GIF Credit: flabfix.com
5. Calf Raises (Lower Body)
Calf raises are a great way to strengthen your calves, which will make your morning run easier. To start, stand up straight and raise your heels until you are standing on your toes, then slowly lower yourself back to the ground to your starting pose.
