Resistance Loop Band Leg Exercises
LEGS HAVE THE LARGEST MUSCLES in the human body. The building of muscle raises metabolism and subsequently reduces obesity. Combine that with the newest, most convenient form of exercise, and you get loop band leg exercises. Following are five of the most effective and simplest resistance loop band exercises.
1. Standing Band Squat
Place the band on the floor or ground and step into it. Bring it up slightly above ankle height and spread your legs wider than shoulder width apart until you feel resistance from the band. Flex your abdominal muscles, throw your shoulders back, and keep your back straight as you squat down until your thighs are parallel to the floor. Hold for the count of two and slowly return to the standing position to complete the first rep.
Muscles affected: Quads, lats, calves
2. Sidestep Band Walk
Place the band around your legs just below the knees. Place the feet slightly wider than shoulder width as you assume a half squat position, thighs at 45 degrees. Flex your abdominal muscles and throw your shoulders back as you step far to the right with your right leg. Then slightly step to the right with your left leg, ensuring that the band maintains resistance. After performing the recommended steps to the right, reverse directions to complete a set.
Muscles affected: Quads, shins, calves, lats, obliques
3. Standing Hamstring Curl
For this exercise you'll need a chair to balance yourself. Place your loop band around the legs slightly above the ankles and keep your feet shoulder width apart. Lifting your right foot, slowly bend your right leg back at the knee to about 90 degrees or parallel to the floor. Hold for the count of two then slowly lower your foot back to the floor. After a set of reps switch legs.
Muscles affected: Hamstring, calves
4. Lying Hip Abductions
Lie on your left side with legs stacked and straight and your loop band around the legs at the ankles. Flex your abs, pecs, and glutes as you slowly raise your straightened right leg as high as possible. Hold for the count of two and then slowly lower. Complete reps and switch sides.
Muscles affected: Quads (hip abductors), shins, lats, obliques
5. The Clamshell
Step into your loop band and pull it up to your thighs. Lie on your left side with legs bent back and both feet touching each other. Slowly bring right knee up keeping the knees bent and the feet touching. Slowly lower right knee to starting position to complete the rep. Complete your proscribed reps, and switch sides to finish one set.
Muscles affected: Quads (hip abductors), obliques
Perform two or three of these exercises two or three times each week and you'll stimulate your natural fat burning machine.
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Best wishes for 2015!
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