Save time with double-duty moves

Combining leg work with upper body strengthening is a good way to double your results in a shorter amount of time. Only certain exercises lend themselves well to combo moves, and this is one of them. You will strengthen your thighs and buttocks as well as your shoulders and back with this multi-joint exercise.

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1 Stand upright holding a dumbbell in each hand. Step your left foot in front of you and stand with equal weight over each leg. Lift your chest and pull your abdominals in toward your spine. With the dumbbells near your hipbones, squeeze your elbows back and pull your shoulder blades together.

2 Bend your knees as you reach forward, bringing your dumbbells just below knee level. Move your left knee directly over your left ankle and maintain a straight back. Pause for a moment and then press into your left heel and squeeze your left buttock to return to the standing position. At the same time, pull your shoulder blades together and lift your chest. Repeat 12 times, then switch legs and do a set of 12 with your right leg in front.

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-- Karen Voight