HEALTH

You don’t need an expensive gym membership or a personal trainer to shape up fast. We chatted up pro trainer Missy Beaver to hear about her 5 best-ever moves. Even better? They are super-portable (spring break!) and require no additional equipment. We love her slow-going take on sit-up. She promises it’ll give ya “a flat, toned stomach.”

One-legged squat
Set up a chair so it’s an arm’s length in front of you. You’ll use this for balance, if you need it. Lift your left leg slightly off the ground in front of you and keep your right leg planted. Reach your arms out in front of you as a counterbalance. Slowly squat down, until you feel like you’re sitting in a chair. Stand up slowly. Repeat five times and then switch sides. Do 3 sets. Beginner? Start out with 1 set.

Deck Squat
Start with your feet at hip-width apartt, with hands by your side. Drop down to the ground in a squat position, with your butt tucked under. Roll onto your back. Don’t roll onto your neck! Reach your hands out in front of you and roll up onto your feet. Stand up. Repeat 5 times and do 3 sets.

Lunges
Stand with your feet at hip-width, with your hands by your side. Take a big step forward with your left leg. Lower your right knee down, until it’s almost touching the floor. Don’t let your left knee extend over your left ankle. Your thigh should be parallel to the floor. Slowly stand back up and return to start. Repeat 5 times on each leg. Do 3 sets.

Push back Push-up
Start standing, with your legs together, hands by your side. Crouch down to the floor and get into push-up position. Do 1 push up. Stand back up. Repeat 5 times and do 3 reps.

5-count Sit-ups
Hook your feet under a couch or have someone hold them for you. Bend your knees and sit up with your hands behind your head. Slowly ease down to the ground. It should take you five full seconds to hit the floor. Return to a seated position in a 5-count as well.

4/8/2008 12:00:30 PM