Neons // Fitness Friday

For those of you who don’t know {which is probably most of you!} I started working out with a trainer {2x a wk} last September. I have always been naturally thin, but I was feeling lethargic and sluggish – and I wanted to do something that gave me lasting all-day energy. My good friend Kiersten {an incredibly sweet + beautiful model here in Dallas} knew I was looking for someone who would understand my body type, and help me tone without bulking up or loosing weight. Enter John Benton – a Dallas based trainer who specializes in training models who need to stay in shape for their day job. Although I am far from a model, John immediately understood my goals, and created low cardio, high rep workouts that work. 10 months later, I can’t tell you how happy I am!

I wanted to share a few of the exercises John has taught me that I can do on my own – and without any equipment! In the series below, I used a park bench, but you could easily use things around the house like the side of a bed, or a chair.

I always stretch before working out – I’m too afraid I’ll pull a muscle or tear something if I don’t! I usually just do a few basic ones -across the body and pull, arms over the head and pull, and then a leg stretch – sitting down & touching the toes! 

Next, I warm up with a light 5 minute jog before I start training to get my heart rate going. {If you’re inside – feel free to jog in place! We do this all the time}

First up, is the step up! You start with both feet on the ground, and then step up onto the higher surface, pulling your knee as high as it will go. Keep your butt clenched, and lower yourself back onto the ground in a controlled movement. Do 3 sets of 20 on each leg, interchanging as you go.
   This ones pretty self-explanatory! The tricep dip! You start with your arms at a right angle behind you and lower yourself towards the ground. Do 3 sets of 30!

The open arm push up is basically a push up – but you add in a stomach twist! This really helps tighten your abs while also working your arms! You open with your body lowered against the bench, and while pushing yourself up, you open your arm up towards the sky. Don’t forget to keep your abs tight – do 3 sets of 30!

    Thats it! Three easy workouts that you can do from anywhere! I do these all the time when I’m traveling and don’t have time to hit an actual gym. I can do all of these without ever having to leave the hotel room #mykindaworkout

Had to give y’all a detail shot of this super cute sports bra – I’m in love with the neon colors! Comes in 12 other patterns and designs – I’m so tempted by the turquoise/blue one….

Shorts: ‘Player’ by Victoria Secret Run Short // Tank: Strappy Mesh Tank // Sports Bra: ‘Lightweight’ by Victoria Secret bra // shoes: Nike, old {newer version here} // sunglasses: celine

Do you guys have any go-to workouts? What are your favorite tips when traveling? I would love to know! Happy Friday!

photos: Stephanie Drenka