Karen Voight

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Recent Columns:
June 4, 2007
Just sitting upright properly can be challenging if you try to hold the position for a period of time. It requires both strength and flexibility in the muscles of your legs and back. Think of forming a 90-degree angle with your body with a hinge at your hips.

May 21, 2007
It's easy to get discouraged when practicing twists because your progress may be slow. But be patient and persistent because — even though you may get only a small range of motion — consistently performing twists will stretch important muscles that run along the spine and help stretch your side abdominal muscles.

January 15, 2007
It's easy to get stuck in a rut, doing the same exercises the same old way. The problem is that you might get bored — and your results might not be as good as they could be.

December 25, 2006
Incorporate this simple exercise into your daily fitness program. Moves like this one challenge your core and help you build strength in the muscles that stabilize the spine. This one targets your abs, back and butt, and trains them to work together to protect your spine. With a strong core, you're less likely to be injured and your posture will improve.

December 18, 2006
Here is a terrific move to safely strengthen your back, butt and the backs of your thighs all at the same time.

December 11, 2006
Your triceps make up the rear part of your upper arm and work in opposition to your biceps. The biceps bend the arms; the triceps straighten them.

December 4, 2006
When standing, we often make the mistake of tipping the top of the pelvis forward. Over time, this puts undue stress on the back.

November 27, 2006
Burn unwanted calories while you tone and shape your legs and butt with this multitask exercise — a variation of a side lunge.

November 20, 2006
This exercise targets the rotator cuff muscles, located underneath the shoulders.

November 13, 2006
When it comes to training your abdominals, the stability ball is a must-have tool.