Being average college students, we’re constantly on the go. From classes to clubs, sometimes it seems like we forget about ourselves. Stress is such a main component of college as well, and most people don’t know how to cope with it well. Personally, I stress even about the little things, and one thing that I use to cope with the stress is exercise. Being fit has become a huge part of my life. Taking an hour or even 30 minutes out of your day to workout can help decrease stress and refocus. Working out will also help boost self confidence. No one wants to gain that dreaded freshman 15 anyways. I have created a list of 4 leg day workouts I use on a daily basis that’ll definitely show results!
1. Hip lift Progression
-Start by laying flat on your back with arms to your side. Make sure your knees are bent and you’re not just laying on the floor.
-Lift your hips to the ceiling for about 30 seconds then back down to the floor. I recommend doing 3 sets of 25 lifts
-If you want to change up the exercise lift one leg up while you are doing the lifts. Make sure to keep your thighs parallel and switch legs after a few reps.
2. Sumo Squats
-These squats mainly target your glute muscles and adding weights will help strengthen your legs
– Stand shoulder width apart feet facing forward
– I recommend using a dumbbell with whatever weight preference you want (I use a 25lb dumbbell)
– Hold the dumbbell in front of you as you squat low to the ground. When squatting, make sure your back is straight and you’re squatting lower then a normal squat.
– Repeat this for 3 sets of 10 squats
-Start by placing hands and knees on the ground, similar to a plank position
-Make sure your back is straight
-With each leg, kick back and extend your leg in the air. You can also add a resistance band around to make the exercise a little harder.
-Do 3 sets of 15 on each leg
4. The Crossover Lunge
– Stand with your feet shoulder width apart this is your starting position. Grasp a weight or medicine ball and hold it in front of you.
– Using your right foot, take a large diagonal step behind your right foot. Sink down into a lunge after you crossover, then step back up into the starting position.
– Do the same motion on your left leg as well , I recommend doing 3 sets of 15 reps on each leg.