Tone your body before your wedding day

Wearing a wedding gown that is backless or strapless?
Tone up with these no-fail, no excuse exercises.

Before getting started:

Fitness pro and nutritionist Lauren
Jawno says:

• Perform three sets of 15 reps of each
  of these exercises, either in a circuit
  style or consecutively.
• Make sure you create as much
  resistance on your band as possible.
• Some of these exercises will help you
  work your lower body at the same
  time, and by keeping your core tight
  and contracted, you will also be
  targeting your abs.
• Consult your physician before doing
  any exercise program.

Resistance bands typically cost $15
and can be purchased at any fitness
store or mass market retailer including
Walmart and Canadian Tire.

	For a beautiful back: Resistance Band Rows Place your resistance band around a stable heavy object at chest level. Stand in a squat position, push your hips back and make sure your knees are over your ankles and that your hamstrings are parallel to the floor. Start with your arms extended, palms facing inward and standing as far back as necessary to get enough resistance on the band. Retract shoulder blades and pull your hands towards your waist, squeezing your shoulder blades as you pull back. Slowly release and repeat.
	For I’m-a-Babe Biceps: Curls with Resistance Band Stand on the resistance band with feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, core tight, spine straight and shoulders down and back. Hold band so that palms are facing forward. Bring hands up towards shoulders, focusing on contracting bicep muscles. Slowly lower to starting position, keeping elbows slightly bent at the finish.
	For show-off shoulders: Side Raises with Resistance Band Stand on the resistance band with feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, core tight, spine straight and shoulders down and back. Hold band so that palms are facing inward. Slowly raise arms out to the side to just below shoulder height, keeping shoulders down as you perform the exercise. Slowly lower to starting position, keeping elbows slightly bent at the finish.

Visit Lauren at change4good.com.

Originally published in Today’s Bride magazine, Spring/Summer 2013.