Q: I’m doing deadlifts, lunges, leg curls and walking to tone my butt. Are there other exercises I can do?
A: A step-up would be a good exercise to add to your routine. You’ll need a bench or step (about eight inches high) and a set of dumbbells (start with 2-5 pounds).
Holding the dumbbells at your sides, put your right foot on the step. Make sure your entire foot is on it; no toes or heels hanging off. Then step up with your left foot. Step back off with your right and then your left foot. Repeat 10 to 15 times. After a minute break, do another set of 10 to 15 starting with your left foot. When you can comfortably do two sets of 15, increase the amount of weight you’re holding.
It’s okay to do multiple exercises for one body part, just don’t ignore your other muscles. Otherwise, they’ll get weak and flabby, or you may even develop imbalances between muscle groups that may put you at risk of injuries.
