What’s the number one resolution people make each year? Getting in shape. Whether they need to drop a few pounds or just tone up what they have, improvements in diet and exercise always seem to make the list. And, if you’re planing to walk down the aisle this year, it will probably top the list–especially if you’re donning a strapless gown. Since brides have more of an “incentive” to shape up, I thought it would be a good idea to help you out with that.
Armed and Dangerous?
If you feel that your arms are a deadly weapon, knocking people out with one fling of the flab, here are a few tips that can help you get them in shape before the wedding.
Pump it up! With a moderate amount of weight (typically no more than 10-12 pounds), work those arms by doing 6-8 repetitions of each exercise, such as bicep curls, arm raises, overhead extensions, etc. You can even add weights to your aerobics workout to achieve muscular–not manly–arms.
Dumbbells aren’t for Dum-Dums! They’re actually a smart addition to your workout routine, and they’re easy to use. Simply stand with your back straight and arms by your side. Hold the dumbbells with your palms facing inward, and slowly raise one dumbbell at a time toward your shoulder.
Push Up and Shape Up! There’s just no getting around doing push ups. They’ve been around forever because they work. And, with so many variations, you can find the form that’s right for you. Either way, be sure to keep your back straight, stomach and butt tight and use a full range of motion. Don’t cheat on the way down by letting momentum (and gravity) do the work. It’s all about control. Remember, 10 correct push ups beats 100 incorrect ones any day!
Keep your chin up! Literally! Doing those godforsaken chin ups will get results fast. They’re hard, but they work. If you don’t have a lot of time and you need to get moving quickly, this is the exercise for you. Just find a good solid steel bar with the proper space and literally pull yourself up.
Now that you’re armed with valuable information, there’s nothing stopping you!
Good News and Bad News?
Just like it takes a village to raise a child–it takes working on the whole body to see a difference in your arms. In addition to these killer exercises, get a good cardio workout by running, jumping rope or aerobics. Slimming the entire body will help you reach your goal. It’s also a good idea to save the sweets until the wedding day when you can eat all the cake you want. It’s your reward for looking as svelte as the couple on your wedding cake topper.
So go ahead and shape ’em up so you can show ’em off! Whether you’re going sleeveless or strapless…when it’s all said and done, you can proudly display your amazing arms like Michelle Obama!
