Lunges are a particularly
emphatic form of
physical exercise. They work your legs (most especially your
thighs,
quadriceps, etc.) and your
cardiovascular system. My trainer makes me do these, and I hate 'em until I'm done with them and can feel what they've done to me.
To do lunges:
- Stand facing an open area (mirrors help, but leave several feet between yourself and the mirror - at least six feet).
- Stand with feet at shoulder width.
- Using your left leg, step forward as far as you can without lifting the center of your right foot off the ground, but don't follow through with your right foot.
- Continue down until your left knee is at a ninety-degree angle, and your right knee is almost touching the ground.
- Now stop, and step back with your left leg, ending up standing where you started. Don't let your right foot move.
- Repeat for the other leg.
This hurts and builds up legs quick as hell. As with any exercise, don't do this without checking with your physician if you haven't worked out recently. Make sure you have a clear space with no obstructions. Use a mat if you can. Stretch/warm up before trying this.
A slightly less intense version, suitable for beginners or weaklings like me, is walking lunges.