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mastering the basics: essential exercises for beginners

Writer's picture: Ian McKayIan McKay

lady squatting with resistance band
squatting with a band around quads helps engage glutes!

Starting a fitness journey can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially if you're new to exercise. But don't worry! This blog post is your ultimate guide to mastering the basics. We've compiled a list of essential exercises that are perfect for beginners, helping you build a strong foundation and set yourself up for success. Whether you're aiming to improve your overall fitness, build strength, or lose weight, these exercises will help you kick-start your fitness journey with confidence.


1. Squats:

Squats are a fundamental exercise that targets your lower body, including your quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. They help build leg and core strength while improving mobility and stability. Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, then lower your hips back and down as if sitting into an imaginary chair. Keep your chest up and knees aligned with your toes. Push through your heels to return to the starting position.


2. Push-Ups:

Push-ups are a great exercise for strengthening your upper body, primarily targeting your chest, shoulders, and triceps. Begin in a high plank position with your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart and your body in a straight line. Lower your chest towards the floor while maintaining a tight core, then push back up to the starting position. Modify the exercise by performing push-ups from your knees if needed.


3. Plank:

Planks are excellent for building core strength and stability. Start in a push-up position, then lower your forearms to the ground, elbows directly beneath your shoulders. Keep your body in a straight line from head to toe, engaging your core muscles. Hold the position for as long as you can, focusing on maintaining proper form and breathing steadily.


4. Lunges:

Lunges target your quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes while also improving balance and coordination. Begin by stepping forward with one foot and lowering your body until both knees form 90-degree angles. Keep your front knee aligned with your ankle, and your back knee slightly above the floor. Push through your front heel to return to the starting position, then repeat on the other side.


5. Bent-Over Rows:

Bent-over rows are a compound exercise that targets your back muscles, including the lats and rhomboids. Hold a pair of dumbbells or any weighted objects in your hands and hinge forward from your hips, maintaining a flat back. Engage your core and pull the weights towards your torso, squeezing your shoulder blades together. Lower the weights back down and repeat for a set of repetitions.


6. Bicycle Crunches:

Bicycle crunches are an effective exercise for strengthening your abdominal muscles. Lie on your back, bring your knees up, and lift your shoulders off the ground. Alternate bringing your left elbow towards your right knee while extending your left leg, and then bring your right elbow towards your left knee while extending your right leg. Continue alternating sides in a pedaling motion.


7. Step-Ups:

Step-ups are a simple yet challenging exercise that targets your legs, especially your quads and glutes. Find a sturdy step or platform, place one foot on it, and push through your heel to lift your body up. Step down with the same foot and repeat the movement on the other side. You can increase the intensity by holding dumbbells or adding height to the step.



By incorporating these essential exercises into your fitness routine, you'll lay a solid foundation for your fitness journey. Remember to start at a comfortable intensity and gradually increase as you gain strength and confidence. Don't forget to maintain proper form, listen to your body, and consult with a fitness professional if you have any concerns or questions. With consistency and dedication, you'll soon be on your way.

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