With summer just around the corner, we’ll break down the fitness and skincare routines to achieve that swimsuit-ready body and firm-looking skin.
When it comes to weight management, weight-lifting might not be the first to come to mind. While it’s true that weight-training workout doesn’t burn as many calories as a cardio session, it strengthens muscles and improves our resting metabolism. A higher muscle mass increases our metabolic rate, which determines how many calories we burn when we’re not exercising. In turn, it encourages our body to continue to burn calories after our workout – also sometimes called the “after burn” effect.
Besides losing fat, weight-training is also essential to shape your curves. There’s no need to completely steer clear of weights or be intimidated. Here are five beginner-friendly routines to look lean and toned:
Chest Press: Lie flat on the floor with knees bent. Inhale and position the dumbbells with the upper arm at a 90-degree angle. Push the weight upward while exhaling. Lower back should not rise off the floor. Three sets of 12-15 reps on each side.
Kickback: Begin on all fours on a mat, hook one end of the resistance band around each foot and pull the band tight with thumbs. Straighten one leg directly behind you and inhale. Exhale and slowly bring the leg back to its original position. Three sets of 12-15 reps on each side.
Deadlift: Step on to a resistance band with feet at shoulder-width. Hold the band firmly, bend down while keeping the back straight, inhale. Then, exhale and slowly lift chest up while keeping the back straight, and pause for a few seconds. Inhale and return to the starting position. Three sets of 12-15 reps.
Lunges: With one leg in front of another, both stepping on the resistance band and one hand maintaining a firm grip on the band as the starting position. Exhale and slowly bend both legs at a 90-degree angle. Inhale and return to the starting position. Three sets of 12-15 reps.
Bent Over Row: Step on to a resistance band with feet at shoulder-width. With both hands holding on to the band firmly, bend slightly while keeping the back straight, inhale. Exhale while pulling both elbows and shoulders back and then slowly release to the starting position.
Invest in some essential workout equipment so you’re motivated to simply move around at home next time you’re binge-watching your favorite dramas.
Go big with a complete dumbbell system by Casall. The weight range of the nifty Casall
Adjustable Dumbbell Set goes up to 5kg and allows you to build strength at home without taking up so much space.
Prevention is key to stop the annoying calluses from forming. The low-density foam padding of NIKE Women’s Printed Gym Elemental Fitness Gloves protect your hands from rubbing against the barbells, without compromising the flexibility of movement. The breathable mesh also means your hands stay dry during your workout.
For those who are looking for something less heavy-duty, and perhaps, cuter (because why not?), Move It Beat Smart Dumbbell is your best bet. Available in 0.5kg, 0.75kg and 1kg, the vibrant dumbbell in turquoise color totally screams summer fun!
The all-mighty resistance band targets specific muscle groups and allows for a wide variety of exercise. The SKLZ Pro Bands come in handy for your strength and flexibility training.
An ideal yoga mat provides ample cushioned support yet enough of a connection to the floor during your workout. NIKE‘syoga mat gives just enough grip and is an all-rounder that can endure simple stretches, hopping, and everything in between.
Reward your body with some TLC after an intense workout.
A quick massage reduces muscle soreness and speeds up cell recovery. YA-MAN Wavy EMS Roller comes to the rescue and rejuvenates tired muscles. The dual frequency setting combines with the patent 4D drainage system to indulge in you some much-deserved downtime.
In conjunction with the roller, try RéVive Supérieur Body Renewal Firming Cream. Developed by Dr. Gregory Bays Brown to heal burn victims, the buttery formula features a potent hyaluronic acid complex, which goes hand in hand with the Bio-Renewal Technology, which helps encourage collagen and elastin production, to reduce visible signs of aging.
Nothing feels more revigorating than a long shower after workout. Make the best out of your steamy shower and lather on CLARINS’ Body Fit Anti-Cellulite Contouring Expert. One of the hero ingredients, organic quince leaf, visibly firms, lifts and streamlines thighs and hips. The plant-based formula comes in a cream-gel texture that sinks right into your skin, to target cellulite and improve the firmness of skin.
Thanks to the array of at-home workout gear and skincare range, you’re another step closer to that dream figure and glowing, firm-looking skin.
