Have you ever wondered what people see when you turn around and walk away? Have you seen it for yourself in the mirror? If so, do you like what you see? We normally check ourselves out from the front and the side, but taking a look at our "rear view" takes flexibility -- and courage -- especially if you don't have a three-way mirror.
My client, Dita Von Teese, the queen of burlesque, is especially concerned about keeping her rear view in top shape for her performances. In fact, Dita has a code word for her workouts just before an important performance -- she'll announce that it's "A** Day." For those days especially, I'll come up with exercises to accomplish toning, lifting and firming her backside. My fitness recipe includes targeting her glutes, inner and outer thighs, hips and, of course, abs.
The routines are so effective, it's only fair that I share them with everyone who wants to target and tone the glutes, inner and outer thighs, hips and waistline. And in my Lower Body Pilates workout, I've included a 10-minute ab workout bonus! Here's a little sampling from the hips and waistline section:
Lie on your right side, hips stacked on top of one another, tummy pulled in, shoulders down, chest lifted. Posture is important, even when you're lying down! Straighten your legs at a slight angle away from the hips to help protect your lower back. Make sure you're squeezing your legs together, activating your inner thighs and glutes. Slide your right arm straight out in front of the body on your mat, even with shoulder, palm down. The left hand goes behind your head with shoulder down and elbow bent. Push with the hand that is on the floor so the torso comes up into a side crunch position. Lower down with control. Make sure you exhale as you crunch up. Repeat this six to eight times slowly. Do another set of six to eight, lifting your legs together with the torso. You should definitely feel your obliques and your waist! If you want more, repeat the series a few times, and then switch sides. Do this every day for two weeks and you may lose at least half an inch around your waistline! For best results, make sure you're eating sensibly; stay away from unhealthy snacks and sugar.
My Lower Body Pilates workout -- as well as many of my other workouts -- are available for instant streaming on GaiamTV.com!
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