The Only 12 Exercises You Need To Get In Shape

The Only 12 Exercises You Need To Get In Shape. Graphic © herbshealthhappiness.com. Photo © Shutterstock 767561521 (under license)

We discovered a fantastic set of exercises with easy-to-follow, illustrated instructions – and it’s so good that we had to share! The link to the full set is below.

These exercises are a fantastic example of a set of “bodyweight exercises” designed to condition the whole body. Bodyweight exercises, also generally known as calisthenics, are so named because you are not lifting weights but using your body’s natural mass to create the resistance necessary for working the muscles.

One of the advantages often cited for bodyweight exercises is that they are regarded by their advocates as more “natural” than lifting weights. These exercise forms work the body in ways closer to the ones it is naturally designed for – thus reducing risks of injury which are notorious in weightlifting. Many of the bodyweight exercises do not “isolate” single muscles – a very unnatural practice – but work the whole body in the manner in which it was intended to be worked. These exercises echo back to our primal past and the kinds of motions we evolved to do; whereas modern gym machine exercises can sometimes be seen as somewhat “unnatural”.

When working out it is important to keep good form. This is for reasons of safety and injury prevention as well as for actually getting a better workout! It is better to do a smaller number of “good reps” – keeping good form – than a higher number of reps that were performed while allowing the body to “cheat” in various ways that lead to bad postural habits. Good form may be more difficult to start with but see it as an investment in your health. Start small, keep it regular and build up gradually. Keep your focus and you will quickly notice progress. Learn the posture of the exercise carefully and stick to it – as these exercises have been evolved over time to increase the functional strength that is gained from correct form.

Ok, here’s the link to the full tutorial:

The Only 12 Exercises You Need To Get In Shape (Full Tutorial)

Note – consult your physician before commencing new diets, exercise routines or supplements, especially if you are elderly, have existing health conditions or are using medications.