These Are My 3 Favorite Exercises. Find Out Why!

Every physical therapy and personal trainer has their favorite exercises. And we all have varying reasons why we like them the best. Personally, I love exercises that require only bodyweight because you can do them anywhere, and anyone can complete them. They also often incorporate more than one muscle group, making it a more efficient type of exercises. Check out my favorite exercises below.

The Plank: This exercise is designed to target the core, but it also works the legs, gluts, arms and shoulder blades. It is truly a total body exercise. To complete the plank, first prop yourself on your forearm and elbows. Next pull in your abs, and squeeze your behind. Lift your body up on the balls of your feet, keeping your spine straight and hips flat. Hold for up to 60 seconds and repeat 3 times.

The Squat: Squats are a great way to work your thighs, behind, hamstrings and calf muscles. It is also a very functional exercise as we squat to sit every day. Learning to do this exercise correctly can also prevent lower back pain. To complete the squat, stand with your feet hip width apart. Keeping your toes and knees straight ahead, bend your knees and stick your behind back. Keep the weight on your heels, and your knees parallel. Then straighten your knees and squeeze your behind to stand back up. Repeat 2 sets of 20 repetitions.

The Push-Up: This exercise is great for working the arms and chest, but it can also work the core. This can also be a great way to get your arms toned and looking their best. And push ups can also help strengthen the shoulder. To complete this exercise, place your hands shoulder width apart on the floor. Next lift your body up on the balls of your feet, making sure to squeeze the abs. Slowly lower your body to the floor by bending the elbows. Bring your body to elbow level and then straighten the arms again. Repeat 2 sets of 20 repetitions.