Some people stay away from the gym because doing certain exercises are embarrassing. It's bad enough that all those awkward moves are challenging to do, but it's worse when you have to be self-conscious about it.
Fitness experts understand this, but these exercise moves will actually help improve, strengthen and balance the body's muscles. The quicker you acknowledge this and get ready to get awkward, the quicker you can get your exercise routine going!
Here are some exercise moves that may look awkward, funny and downright ridiculous, but are, in fact, good for you.
PUSHUPS OR PIKE PUSHUPS
A pushup is the world's greatest exercise, according to Huffington Post. The routine works up the arm and strengthens the body's core.
With your hands and toes on the floor, in a full plank position, lower your body to the ground while making sure that your neck and spine are in line. Then, slowly raise your body up to resume plank position. Do this repetitively.
If this is your first time doing pushups, don't pressure yourself into doing 50 right away. Doing at least 10 is enough and just gradually increase as you become comfortable. There are variations you can do if you're not ready with the traditional way, such as this Pike pushup:
LATERAL SQUAT WALK
A squat walk is funny, awkward and looks ungraceful. It's not exactly best way to move about, but the exercise can help tone the glutes and work up your heart rate, according to Shape.
In a standing position, with your feet wide apart and with dumbbells on both hands to your chest, slowly bend your knees and bring your body to a sitting position. Make sure that the hips, the lower body and the thighs are parallel to the floor. Then, slowly walk to the sides while keeping the back straight with each movement.
Below is the video demonstration:
TREADMILL SIDE SHUFFLE
Doing this exercise may draw a lot of stares your way, as it will look as though you don't understand how treadmills work. You're doing your hips, thighs, calves and abs a huge favor by doing this routine, though, so it may be a good idea to keep it up. You'll also improve your body's coordination.
A word of caution before you start the side shuffle as certain exercise equipment may cause accidents, according to Men's Health. Always keep your guard up when doing this exercise and hook yourself on to the safety cord that most treadmills feature.
Make sure your treadmill is programmed at 3.0-3.5 speed only and then stand facing the sides. Hold on to the bar to avoid any trips, then lightly bend your knees and legs, while making sure that the rest of your body is upright and aligned. Your feet shouldn't cross each other as you move. As soon as you're ready to shuffle, let go of the bar and then do this for minute first to see how you can manage.
Take a look at how it's done properly in this video:
As with any exercise routine, you should consult your doctor before beginning. To reduce the risk of injury, before beginning this or any exercise program, please consult a healthcare provider for appropriate exercise prescription and safety precautions. The exercise instruction and advice presented are in no way intended as a substitute for medical consultation. We disclaim any liability from and in connection with this program. As with any exercise program, if at any point during your workout you begin to feel faint, dizzy, or have physical discomfort, you should stop immediately and consult a physician.
