My Secret to Toned Arms, Flat Tummy and Lean Legs

People ask me all the time how I maintain my tone, especially in my arms. With the extremely busy schedule I have, I still make certain to do at least 8 minutes of Pilates every day... so on the days I have limited time, the following exercises are my secret to toned arms and legs and a flat tummy.

Warm-up

Improves circulation, stretches and strengthens legs

Toes, Heels, Heel Lowers

Lying on the platform feet on foot bar, inhale and straighten your legs, exhale and bend your knees. Change foot position and repeat. (8 - 10 reps)

The Hundred

Improves lung capacity and strengthens abdominals

Lying on the platform, hands in straps, arms extended to ceiling, head and shoulders lifted, lower arms to side. Inhale for 5 counts and exhale for 5 counts as you pump your arms up and down. (10 reps)

Legs in Straps

Stretches hip joint and strengthens legs

• Leg Lowers
• Leg Circles

  Lying on the platform with feet in the straps, legs extended to the ceiling, inhale and lower legs to 45 degrees, exhale and lift. Circle legs in each direction. (8 - 10 reps)
  
  

Arms in Straps

Stretches shoulder joint and strengthens arms and chest

• Bicep Curls
• Chest Expansion
• Hug a Tree

  Sitting on the platform hands in the straps.
  

  

Elephant

Stretches hamstrings and calves and strengthens abdominals

Standing on the platform, hands on the foot bar, Inhale and push platform out, exhale and pull it in. (8 - 10 reps)

Pelvic Tilt

Tightens and lifts the bum

Lie on the platform, feet turned out on the corners of the foot bar. Lift tailbone 4 inches off the platform, keep waist down. Inhale and straighten your legs, exhale and bend your knees. (8-10 reps)

Running

Cools down the entire body

Lying on the platform feet on the foot bar, inhale and straighten your legs, exhale and bend your knees. (8-10 reps)

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