Love my legs...

I've been concentrating mostly on my upper body as I've been getting back into shape, because have better arm, chest and back strength is a huge benefit in aerial class.  Now that my arms are shaping up, I'm ready to start incorporating other body parts.

It's been a long time since I've "loved" my legs.  Unfortunately, I carry all my weight in my lower body.  I'm very short, so it doesn't take much extra weight to make my lower body look dumpy.  I was okay with it until I put on my thigh high pirate boots, and they wouldn't lace.  That just won't do.  These boots were expensive and are one of my prized possessions, so it's time to start working the lower body as well.

I'm going to start biking to Midsummer rehearsals and to aerial class once I get new tubes for my bike.  But, I'm also going to do some sculpting exercises.  I found this routine on Pinterest last year before Ren Fest, and I love it.

There is really no down side to these exercises.  They work your core, glutes, and legs, and you will definitely feel it after just one circuit.  The routine is comprised of five ballet-inspired moves that really work your butt, core, and legs.  I'm going to add this back into my strength training and see what comes of it.

I addition, I have added wall sits to my routine.  I'm trying to do 8 one minute wall sits per day.  So far, I've not found any of the exercises to be limiting in any way.  In fact, I could probably add another couple circuits (if I have time).

Back On Pointe

If you're looking for well thought out and challenging fitness routines, Back On Pointe is a good place to start.  She has well-rounded general workouts and several different workouts if you're targeting muscle tone in specific areas of the body.

Upper body strength is of the utmost importance in aerial dance, and I have been on the search for upper body and arm routines that I can supplement my training with.  Everything I've read says your body gets used to doing the same sets of exercises over and over again.  So, I want to constantly be doing something different.

Her routines are great, because you don't have to go to a gym to do them.  Most of the exercises use things commonly found in your house.  Some of them occasionally require free weights, but they are inexpensive and can be found at Wal-Mart or Target.  

The only thing I don't like about her routines is that she's fond of the Mountain Climber move.  I hate that move.  I want it to do die in a fire.

It's too soon yet to make any sort of judgement on the effectiveness of the routines, but I will you posted.