Muscles can get a workout even without much movement. It's called "isometric" exercise, and it's a godsend in today's push-button society. Here are a few super-subtle moves that you can do whether you're sitting on a bus or sending a fax. No one will suspect a thing!
- Inner-Thigh Squeeze: While sitting, place a tennis ball or your fist between your knees and squeeze your thighs together for 5 to 10 seconds. Feel the tension in your inner thighs!
- Bun Lifter: Squeeze your buttocks muscles for 5 seconds — it's equal to one squat! A super move for your rear view!
- Tummy Tightener: Pull in your tummy, tense and tighten up your ab muscles; hold for 10 seconds. That's equal to one sit-up!
- Seated Ab Firmer: Sit up tall and place your hands on your thighs. Tighten abs as you press your hands against your thighs and pull your knees in toward your chest. Hold for 5 to 10 seconds, then release.
- Triceps Toner: Stand with your arms by your sides, palms facing behind you. Keeping your arms straight, gently pulse your arms backward for 5 seconds then release. This is a great isometric exercise for the back of your arms — I do it while waiting in line at the grocery store!
- Arm Shaper: Lay your left hand on top of your right in front of you, palms together. Lift upward with your right arm while using your left arm to create resistance. Feel your right arm strengthening. Hold this flex for 5 seconds. Switch arms and repeat. Do twice on each side.
- Chest Firmer: Work your "pecs," or chest muscles, by putting your palms together in prayer position, then pressing your hands together for 5 seconds. Relax and repeat twice.
- Posture Perfecter: You can do this one while you're standing or sitting. Bend your elbows at a 90-degree angle, forearms parallel to the floor. Squeeze your shoulder blades down and together as you gently press your elbows back; this is a very subtle movement. Hold for five seconds, then release.