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Showing posts with label Dips. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dips. Show all posts

Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Workout: Deer Park Circuit 1

Workout: Deer Park Circuit 1

Equipment Used:
  • A set of sturdy bleachers (preferably solid)
  • Optional: Gloves
  • Optional: Ankle weights
  • Optional: Weight vest
  • Optional: Rubber Bands / Resistance Band Loops
Tip: This workout can be done on any set of stairs.

Circuit #1

SUMMARY
***Stretch/Warmup
  1. Alternating Toe Taps (up) into Wall Sit Kicks
  2. Walking Push Ups (lateral)
  3. Stair Lunges (up) into Side Squats (down)
  4. Side Plank / V Ups
  5. Calf Raises into Bulgarian Split Squats
  6. Bleacher Burpees
  7. Single Leg Step Ups into Single/Double Leg Hop (up)
  8. Tricep Dips
  9. Bleacher Crawls (backwards or forwards, up & down)

Circuit #1 - Bleacher Workout

This workout is very similar to the plyo/iso workout. This time we are using a set of bleachers to provide an added challenge to the workout. For y'all attending the workout here in Austin, please note that the location is not Mueller Lake Park but Deer Park Middle School (address/directions at the bottom of the page). This workout can be done anywhere w/ a set of bleachers however. If bleachers aren't available, anywhere w/ a sturdy raised surface that will support your weight will do. If bleachers are available, try to find a set that is solid and doesn't have gaps that your foot can slip into. We don't want you out there getting hurt!

Your bodyweight is sufficient enough to use for this workout but if you want an additional challenge, I recommend using some form of added weight. I recently bought a set of K Bands and they work great. You just attach them to your thighs & go about your normal workout. A set of comfortable ankle weights and/or a weighted vest would work too. The workout does include upper body and a tiny bit of abs but it is primarily legs and cardio. Be sure to stretch appropriately.

The order of this workout is setup to travel around a set of bleacher stairs. Certain exercises are done in place wherever you happen to be. Others are done while moving either up or down the stairs. All bleachers are different and you may have to skip a step or two when performing up/down exercises if the stair width is really small. You can also travel up/down the bleacher seats themselves if it seems safe. Pay special attention to your footwork and try not to trip (especially when fatigued). Try to avoid using the railing for things like push-ups or wall sits unless you are absolutely sure it is sturdy.

A great portion of these exercises have not been used here before. Video examples are linked below so take time to review them and practice your form before hitting the workout. Good luck!



Examples

Alternating Toe Taps: Click For Video Example
Wall Sit Kicks: Click For Video Example

Walking Push Ups: Click For Video Example

Stair Lunges: Click For Video Example
Side Squats: Click For Video Example

Side Plank: Click For Video Example
V Ups: Click For Video Example

Calf Raises: Click For Video Example
Bulgarian Split Squats: Click For Video Example

Bleacher Burpees: Click For Video Example

Single Leg Step Ups: Click For Video Example
Single/Double Leg Hop: Click For Video Example

Tricep Dips: Click For Video Example

Bleacher Crawls: Click For Video Example


DIRECTIONS
Deerpark Middle School (North Austin)
Address: 8849 Anderson Mill Rd Austin, TX 78729

Find your way to Anderson Mill Road and either turn in one of the service roads or use Turtle Rock Rd to access the school.On the map picture below, the red "X" marks the location of the track. The school is an open campus and accessible 24/7. There is a circular paved track w/ a set of bleacher next to it. We should be gathered near the bleachers.



FROM SOUTH AUSTIN
  • Head North on I-35 / Mopac Loop 1
    *** Or just get to 183 North however you normally would
  • Merge onto US-183 North
  • Take the Anderson Mill Road exit
  • Turn right onto Anderson Mill Road at the light
  • Turn right onto Turtle Rock Rd
  • The school will be on your left, turn into the school at the sign
  • Make an immediate right onto the service road heading behind the school, you will run into the track area. Park anywhere off the road.
FROM NORTH AUSTIN
Toll Road
  • Head South on I-35
    *** Or just get to the TX-45 Toll Road however you normally would.
  • Take exit 250B toward TX-45/TX-1 (toll)
  • Keep right at the fork, merge onto TX-45
  • Take the exit for FM 734/Parmer Ln
  • Turn left onto FM 734/Parmer Ln
  • Turn right onto Anderson Mill Rd
  • Turn left onto Turtle Rock Rd
  • The school will be on your left, turn into the school at the sign
  • Make an immediate right onto the service road heading behind the school, you will run into the track area. Park anywhere off the road.
No Toll Roads
  • Head South on I-35
    *** Or just get to the McNeil Road however you normally would.
  • Take exit 252B-A toward RM 620/McNeil Rd
  • Stay right to keep onto Co Rd 171/McNeil Rd
  • Turn right onto FM 734/Parmer Ln
  • Turn left onto Anderson Mill Rd
  • Turn left onto Turtle Rock Rd
  • The school will be on your left, turn into the school at the sign
  • Make an immediate right onto the service road heading behind the school, you will run into the track area. Park anywhere off the road.
FROM CEDAR PARK
  • Head South on 183
  • Take the Anderson Mill Road exit
  • Turn left onto Anderson Mill Road at the light
  • Turn right onto Turtle Rock Rd
  • The school will be on your left, turn into the school at the sign
  • Make an immediate right onto the service road heading behind the school, you will run into the track area. Park anywhere off the road.
 
Hydrate, Rest and Recover. Good luck!!!

Friday, January 25, 2013

Workout: Chest 1

Workout: Chest 1

Below is a chest routine that I've found to be good for gains. I'm an ectomorph and my chest doesn't grow easily. I still have a ways to go before I can get it to round out above my collarbone but I feel I'm on my way. The addition of more flys and incline exercises have seemed to help greatly. I really don't like Flat Bench too much and after talking to others I plan to reduce or replace that exercise. In the meanwhile, I try to keep a slightly wider grip during flat bench to hit my pecs more. I have long arms so this may just be a specific issue for me. If you need a chest workout, try this one and leave us feedback. Links to video examples of each exercise are provided at the very bottom of this page too. Good luck!

Tip: Be sure to stretch adequately, especially your rotator cuff. Warm up your chest and arms muscles by lifting light weights (i.e. pressing the barbell only, rotating a 5-10lb plate on each hand, knocking out some push-ups).

Chest #1

SUMMARY
Stretch/Warmup
  1. Incline Dumbbell Press (5 sets)
  2. Standing Cable Fly: Upper & Lower (3 sets each)
  3. Flat Bench Press (4 sets)
  4. Incline Dumbbell Fly (5 sets)
  5. Decline Bench Press (5 sets)
  6. Dips into Push-Ups Superset (Failure)

Examples

  1. Incline Dumbbell Press: Click For Video Example
  2. Standing Cable Fly (Lower): Click For Video Example
    Standing Cable Fly (Upper): Click For Video Example
  3. Flat Bench Press: Click For Video Example
  4. Incline Dumbbell Fly: Click For Video Example
  5. Decline Bench Press: Click For Video Example
  6. Dips: Click For Video Example
    Push-Ups: Click For Video Example
Enjoy!!!

Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Mueller Lake Park Circuit 7

Workout: Mueller Lake Park Circuit 7

Equipment Used:
  • Timer (watch/phone/etc)
  • Soft ground area to lie down (carpet/grass/etc)
  • A raised, solid surface which will support your weight (park bench, steps, sturdy chair)
  • Highly Recommended: Resistance Band (medium and/or adjustable recommended)
  • Highly Recommended: A heavy and light pair of dumbbells
Tip: This could also be modified for indoor use however, just get creative!

Circuit #7

SUMMARY
***Stretch/Warmup
  1. Jumping Jacks (warm-up)
  2. Lying Dumbbell Chest Press into Bent Over Dumbbell Row
  3. Alternating Dumbbell Curl into Alternating Dumbbell Front Raise
  4. Tricep Dips into Seated Dumbbell Reverse Flys
  5. Lying Reverse Crunches into Plank
  6. Squat Presses into Romanian Deadlifts
  7. Standing Calf Raises into Dumbbell Step-Ups (or Box Jumps)

Circuit #7 - Sanchez Superset

This circuit encompasses the entire body. It starts with the upper body and works its way down to your legs. This circuit is designed to move quickly and you should limit rest between sets. Since each superset hits the same body part twice, you should feel a good burn. Perform 3-5 sets per superset.

Due to the fact that this circuit will move fast, try to have a variety of different sized dumbbells available. You could also alternately have a light or medium strength resistance band handy to really burn out those last couple reps. Start heavy and when fatigued, drop to a lower weight. Focus on continuous reps and movement to maximize the burn during the entire set.

We switch exercises within a superset every 30 seconds and use 30 seconds of rest between sets. We are working toward eliminating rest between sets & allowing maybe 1 minute rest when switching to a new superset.

Many of these exercises are explained in greater detail in previous posts so browse those for additional tips and tricks. Video examples are linked below to refresh your memory on each exercise.

Examples

Jumping Jacks Click For Video Example
Lying Dumbbell Chest Press: Click For Video Example
Bent Over Dumbbell Row: Click For Video Example
Dumbbell Curl: Click For Video Example
Dumbbell Front Raise: Click For Video Example
Dips: Click For Video Example
Seated Dumbbell Reverse Flys: Click For Video Example
Lying Reverse Crunches: Click For Video Example
Plank: Click For Video Example
Squat Presses: Click For Video Example
Romanian/Stiff-Legged Deadlift: Click For Video Example
Calf Raises: Click For Video Example
Dumbbell Step-Ups: Click For Video Example

Hydrate, Rest and Recover. Good luck!!!

Thursday, October 11, 2012

Workout: Street Workout 1

Workout: Street Workout 1

Equipment Used:
  • Pair of gardening gloves
  • Park Area w/ Pull-Ups bars, Monkey bars, various other bars
  • Optional: Set of tow chains or weighted vest
  • Highly recommended:Water source / Shade
Tip: This workout is outside, designed for a park with some space & some basic equipment. Scout out parks near you.
*** Locations of parks that we frequent that have bar equipment is at the bottom of the page.

Street Workout #1

SUMMARY
***Stretch/Warmup
  1. Pull-Ups/Chin-Ups
  2. Muscle-Ups
  3. L-Sits
  4. Toe-To-Bar
  5. Windshield Wipers
  6. Human Flag
  7. Planche
  8. Dips
  9. Monkey Bar Suicides
  10. Back Lever
  11. Front Lever
  12. Handstand Push-Up

Street Workout #1

This workout is designed to try and build functional upper body strength while learning the basic skills necessary to perform advanced calisthenic movements. Many of these exercises take more than just raw strength and instead require a high degree of technique. Once the technique is perfected any additional strength will help progress you into advanced versions of each exercise. The key here is to slowly master the "progression". A progression is a series of exercises designed to prepare you for an advanced, and usually very difficult, exercise. This is very different and separate from the usual circuits we post and may not be for everybody. It is a fun alternative to hitting the gym and/or track daily. Some of these techniques are used heavily in crossfit/parkour workouts too. Give these a try to diversify your workouts. I guarantee that once you see improvement or master a few basic skills, you will be hooked and want to perfect more. Good luck!

PROGRESSIONS

Pull-Ups/Chin-Ups
  1. Modified Horizontal Rows (knees bent)
  2. Horizontal Rows
  3. Flexed Arm Hang
  4. Slow Release Chin-Up
  5. Chin-Ups
  6. Assisted Pull-Ups
Muscle-Ups
  1. Chest-To-Bar Pull-Ups
  2. Jump into Muscle-Up
  3. Kip Practice (large swing)
L-Sits
  1. Parallel Bar Push-Ups (hands near hips)
  2. Bent Knee Holds (attempt to push hips fwd)
  3. Side-To-Sides
  4. Scoots (fwd and back)
Toe-To-Bar
  1. Bent Knee Raises
  2. Hanging Leg Raises
  3. Knees to Elbow
Windshield Wipers
  1. Hold Pike (toes pointing up, above bar)
  2. Hanging Leg Raises (half and full)
  3. Hanging Side Curl (bent knee)
  4. Hanging L-Twist
  5. Modified Wipers (bent knees)
Human Flag
  1. Form Hold, slighty off ground
  2. Form Hold, knee bent parallel to ground
  3. Form Hold, straight leg vertical
  4. Form Hold, straight leg vertical w/ negative lower
Planche
  1. Master L-Sit progression
  2. L-Sit w/ tucked knees
  3. Rock back into Crow
  4. Crow kicks (single and dual)
  5. Tucked Planche Hold
  6. Tucked Planche Push-Ups
  7. Elevated Planche Push-Ups (feet)
Dips
  1. Bench dips
  2. Elevated bench dips (one or both feet)
  3. Parallel bar dips w/ feet on bar
  4. Negative dips (jump up, lower slow)
  5. Negative holds (lower slow then hold)
Monkey Bar Suicides
  1. Master Pull-Up progression
  2. Perform reps until failure
Back Lever
  1. Skin the cat (bent knee)
  2. Skin the cat (piked)
  3. Lever w/ Knees tucked
  4. Lever w/ legs wide
Front Lever
  1. Hanging Lifts (knee, knee to chest, straight leg)
  2. Toe-To-Bar progression w/ no kip/swing
  3. Torso Raises
  4. Torso Raises (bent knee, legs straight)
  5. Lever lifts
Handstand Push-Up
  1. Master Regular Push-Ups
  2. Pike Push-Ups
  3. Pike Push-Ups w/ elevated feet
  4. Handstands against wall

Examples

1 - Pull-Up/Chin-Up: Video Example
2 - Muscle-Up Tutorial: Video Example
3 - L-Sit: Video Example
4 - Toe-To-Bar: Video Example
5 - Windshield Wipers: Video Example
6 - Human Flag: Video Example
7 - Planche: Video Example
8 - Dips: Video Example
9 - Monkey Bar Suicides: Video Example
10 - Back Lever: Video Example
11 - Front Lever: Video Example
12 - Handstand Push-Up Progression: Video Example

Hydrate, Rest and Recover. Good luck!!!

Local Austin Parks

Brentwood Park
6710 Arroyo Seco Austin, TX 78757
This park has two separate areas of bars. One area has pull-up bars of 6 varying heights. The other area has dip bars, monkey bars and a push-up area. No trails but a large grassy field and basketball court.
ACC Northridge Campus
11928 Stonehollow Dr Austin, TX 78758
One large area in front of the school with all the equipment you need. No trails.
Mueller Lake Park
4550 Mueller Blvd Austin, TX, 78723
This park only has two medium height pull-up bars and equipment for sit-ups. Several miles of trails.
Riata Park
12401 Riata Trace Austin, TX 78727
A couple high pull-up bars and gradually rising parallel bars. Approx one mile trail.

Thursday, June 7, 2012

Workout: Mueller Lake Park Circuit 2

Workout: Mueller Lake Park Circuit 2

Equipment Used:
  • One pair of dumbbells
  • Soft ground area for push-ups/sit-ups
  • Park Bench or flat area of similar height
  • Hill with a steep incline (at least 45 degree) or a set of stairs
  • Highly recommended:Water source / Shade
Tip: This workout is outside, designed for a park with some space & some basic equipment. Scout out parks near you.
*** Directions to the park we use is at the bottom of the page. (Mueller Lake Park)
Tip: At least here in Texas, it's hot as hell outside. Bring water and snack bars to keep your energy up. As always, drink plenty of water and get sufficient rest.

Circuit #2

SUMMARY
***Stretch/Warmup
  1. Push-Up into Military Press Superset
  2. Walking Alternating Lunges
  3. Sit-Ups / Crunches
  4. Bicep Curls
  5. Squats into Shoulder Raise Superset
  6. Reverse Ab Crunches into Plank Superset
  7. Tricep Dips
  8. Box Jumps / Step-Ups
  9. Lying Flutter Kicks/Bicycles into Lying Chest Press Superset
  10. Pull-Ups / Chin-Ups
  11. Incline Wind Sprints
  12. Agility Slalom Run
  13. Optional: 1-2 mile warm down run/walk
Stretch / Warmup
Loosen your muscles (both upper/lower body). Stretch out and hydrate.

1 - Push-Up into Military Press Superset
A - Push-Up
Click For Video Example
Find a soft area to kneel down. Grab your dumbbells and get into the front leaning rest position w/ your hands still wrapped around the dumbbells. Knock out a set of push-ups. Once done, get back onto your knees and move into the Military Press.
B -Military Press
Click For Video Example
While still kneeling after your push-up set, move the dumbbells into position near your head with your arms bent at a 90 degree angle. Perform a set of Military Presses. Afterward, rest 30-60 seconds and then start the superset again with exercise A.
Optional: You can perform both exercises without dumbbells if you get tired.
2 - Walking Alternating Lunges
Video Example
Stand w/ feet shoulder-width apart and at least 30 paces of flat space in front of you. Perform walking lunges. Rest 30-60 seconds between sets.
Optional: To increase difficulty, hold a dumbbell in each hand down by your sides as you perform this exercise.
Optional: You don't have to, but going down low enough to where your knee touches the ground increases difficulty as well.
3 - Sit-Ups / Crunches
Sit-Up Video Example
Crunch Video Example
Find a soft area to lie down (or use a mat or park ab equipment). Either peform crunches or sit-ups (may vary based on equipment and/or people to help hold your feet). Rest 30 seconds between sets (abs recover quickly compared to other muscle groups).
4 - Bicep Curls
Video Example
Grab your dumbbells, stand w/ feet shoulder-width apart and perform bicep curls. Rest 30-60 seconds between sets.
5 - Squats into Shoulder Raise Superset
A - Squats
Click For Video Example
Standing in front of a park bench (or similar flat surface) , stand w/ feet shoulder-width apart and arms out-stretched. Perform squats. Rest 30-60 seconds between sets.
Optional: To increase difficulty, either perform squats with a single weight held near your chest w/ both hands or hold a weight in each hand in the military press position (near your head w/ arms at 45 degrees).
B - Shoulder Raise
Click For Video Example
With your feet together and the weights in hand, down in front of your body, perform front raises. The standard grip is to handle the dumbbell with your palms facing your body and parallel to the floor once raised (as in video example). You can optionally have your palms facing your thighs (hands by your sides) and perpendicular to the floor once raised. Rest 30-60 seconds between sets and then start the superset again with exercise A.
6 - Reverse Ab Crunches into Plank Superset
A - Bench Crunches
Click For Video Example
Sit near the end of a flat surface (park bench or similar). Lean back slightly and hold the sides of the flat bench. Place your legs together and extend them out in front of the end of the bench. Perform reps by bending your knees and pulling them in toward your chest while leaning forward. Release by leaning back into starting position and extending your legs back out.
B - Plank
Click For Video Example
After completing your ab crunches, drop down onto a soft ground surface. Get face down to the ground, resting on the forearms w/ palms flat on the floor. Push off the floor, raising onto your toes and rest on your elbows. Keep your back flat and form a straight line from head to heels. Tilt your pelvis and contract your abdominals to prevent your rear end from sticking up in the air or sagging in the middle. Hold for 20 to 60 seconds to complete a rep. Lower onto your knees to rest. Rest 30-60 seconds between sets and then start the superset again with exercise A.
7 - Tricep Dips
Video Example
Start seating on a park bench (or similar raised flat surface) with your feet flat on the floor and your legs bent out slightly more than 90 degrees. With your palms flat on the bench and your fingers facing the same direction as your body, push your butt out in the air so that you are being supported by your arms. Perform dips. Rest 30-60 seconds between sets.
8 - Box Jumps / Step-Ups
Video Example
Find a sturdy, raised surface that can support your weight. Stand w/ feet shoulder-width apart. Rest 30-60 seconds between sets.
Optional: If you can't do box jumps or become fatigued before the set is complete, perform the following: Step-Up Video Example. Alternating each leg, step up onto the raised surface and then bring your trailing leg up beside it. Step down carefully with each leg and repeat.
Optional: You can increase the height of the object you are jumping onto to increase difficulty.
9 - Lying Flutter Kicks/Bicycles into Lying Chest Press Superset
A - Lying Flutter Kicks
Click For Video Example
Find a soft surface and lie down. Tilt your head forward so it is slighty off the ground. Place your hands under your butt to support your lower back. Raise both your feet off the ground a few inches w/ your legs out straight. Now raise your left leg to a 45 degree angle while leaving the right leg out straight. Lower the left leg, keep it straight and then raise the opposite leg 45 degrees. Repeat and alternate to perform reps.
Optional: If you do not like flutter kicks, lie on your back and perform the following: Ab Bicycles Video Example. In the same lying position as flutter kicks, place both hands behind your raised head. We will instead bring your left knee in toward right elbow and attempt to make them touch. Keep your right leg out straight. Return to the start position & perform a rep w/ the other leg. Repeat and alternate to complete multiple reps.
B - Lying Chest Press
Click For Video Example
While still lying on the ground after your flutter kicks or bicycles, grab two dumbbells. Lie flat on your back and place your arms at 90 degrees, holding the weights in the air. Perform a set of Chest Presses. Afterward, rest 30-60 seconds and then start the superset again with exercise A.
10 - Pull-Ups / Chin-Ups
Video Example (Assisted)
Find a set of pull-up bars (if none available, skip this exercise or perform Delt Rows off a park bench). Perform as many pull/chin-ups as you can un-assisted. If a workout partner or sturdy cooler is available, perform as many assisted pull/chin-ups as possible. Rest 30-60 seconds between sets.
Optional: If no pull-up bars are available, perform the following: Delt Rows Video Example
Optional: You can use a lower hanging pull-up bar and a sturdy cooler to perform assisted pull/chin-ups.
Optional: If you have a friend available, you can bend your knees and have a friend assist you by pulling up on your knees.
11 - Incline Wind Sprints
Video Example
Find a steep hill w/out too much debris and uniform surface. Allow enough flat space at the bottom of the incline to slow down. Sprint quickly up the hill and jog back down. Repeat several times and then rest. Optional: If no suitable hills are available, you can run a step of stairs for an incline workout.
12 - Agility Slalom Run
Video Example
Find a set of trees (or other obstacles/landmarks) that are staggered and spaced on flat ground (pictured at the top of the page). Run around each obstacle, alternating left to right. After the last obstacle, clear to the side of all obstacles and sprint straight back to the start. Rest 30 seconds (or until you catch your breath).
Optional: You can setup a set of cones, spray paint waypoints on the ground or use other means to create the obstacles course to navigate around.
13 - Optional Run
If you're still up for it, either walk or jog a short 1/4 to 1/2 mile course around the park. Walk the entire route to cool down or if you're not tired yet, perform alternating sprints and jogs every 1/8 mile. Walk it out an extra 1/8 mile at the end to cool down after.
Optional: You can hit the sidewalk and follow it around for a 2 mile course.
Hydrate, Rest and Recover. Good luck!!!

DIRECTIONS
The closest intersection is at the edge of the park.
Map to the following intersection:
Simond Ave & Mattie St, Austin TX 78723
FROM NORTH AUSTIN
  • Head South on I-35
    *** Or just get to E 51st street however you normally would
  • Take the exit toward 51st Street
  • Merge onto I-35 Frontage Rd
  • Turn left onto E 51st St
  • Turn right onto Mueller Blvd
    *** Once on Mueller, Seton Hospital will be to your right
  • At the traffic circle, make a left onto Aldrich St
  • Make the first right onto Simond Ave
  • Go to the 2nd driveway entrance
    *** Has pull-up bars near it, park in the lot or on the street
FROM SOUTH AUSTIN
  • Head North on I-35
    *** Or just get to E 51st street however you normally would
  • Take the exit toward Airport Blvd (237A)
  • Keep right at the fork, follow signs for Airport Blvd S/TX-111 Loop E and merge onto TX-111 Loop S/Airport Blvd
  • Turn left onto Aldrich St
    *** Should be first major stoplight
  • At the traffic circle, continue straight to stay on Aldrich St
  • Make the first right onto Simond Ave
  • Go to the 2nd driveway entrance
    *** Has pull-up bars near it, park in the lot or on the street

Monday, May 21, 2012

Workout: Mueller Lake Park Circuit 1

Workout: Mueller Lake Park Circuit 1

Equipment Used:
  • One pair of dumbbells
  • Soft ground area for push-ups/sit-ups
  • Park Bench or flat area of similar height
  • Hill with a steep incline (at least 45 degree) or a set of stairs
  • Highly recommended:Water source / Shade
Tip: This workout is outside, designed for a park with some space & some basic equipment. Scout out parks near you.
*** Directions to the park we use is at the bottom of the page. (Mueller Lake Park)
Tip: At least here in Texas, it's hot as hell outside. Bring water and snack bars to keep your energy up. As always, drink plenty of water and get sufficient rest.

Circuit #1

SUMMARY
  1. Stretch/Warmup
  2. Push-Up / Military Press Superset
  3. Squats
  4. Sit-Ups / Crunches
  5. Bicep Curls
  6. Walking Alternating Lunges
  7. Pull-Ups / Chin-Ups
  8. Tricep Dips
  9. Incline Wind Sprints
  10. Agility Slalom Run
  11. Optional: 1/2 mile run
Stretch / Warmup
Loosen your muscles (both upper/lower body). Stretch out and hydrate.

1 - Push-Up / Military Press Superset
A - Push-Up
Click For Video Example
Find a soft area to kneel down. Grab your dumbbells and get into the front leaning rest position w/ your hands still wrapped around the dumbbells. Knock out a set of push-ups. Once done, get back onto your knees and move into the Military Press.
B -Military Press
Click For Video Example
While still kneeling after your push-up set, move the dumbbells into position near your head with your arms bent at a 90 degree angle. Perform a set of Military Presses. Afterward, rest 30-60 seconds and then start the superset again with push-ups.
Optional: You can perform both exercises without dumbbells if you get tired.
2 - Squats
Click For Video Example
Standing in front of a park bench (or similar flat surface) , stand w/ feet shoulder-width apart and arms out-stretched. Perform squats. Rest 30-60 seconds between sets.
Optional: To increase difficulty, either perform squats with a single weight held near your chest w/ both hands or hold a weight in each hand in the military press position (near your head w/ arms at 45 degrees).
3 - Sit-Ups / Crunches
Sit-Up Video Example
Crunch Video Example
Find a soft area to lie down (or use a mat or park ab equipment). Either peform crunches or sit-ups (may vary based on equipment and/or people to help hold your feet). Rest 30 seconds between sets (abs recover quickly compared to other muscle groups).
4 - Bicep Curls
Video Example
Grab your dumbbells, stand w/ feet shoulder-width apart and perform bicep curls. Rest 30-60 seconds between sets.
5 - Walking Alternating Lunges
Video Example
Stand w/ feet shoulder-width apart and at least 30 paces of flat space in front of you. Perform walking lunges. Rest 30-60 seconds between sets.
Optional: To increase difficulty, hold a dumbbell in each hand down by your sides as you perform this exercise.
Optional: You don't have to, but going down low enough to where your knee touches the ground increases difficulty as well.
6 - Pull-Ups / Chin-Ups
Video Example (Assisted)
Find a set of pull-up bars (if none available, skip this exercise or perform Delt Rows off a park bench). Perform as many pull/chin-ups as you can un-assisted. If a workout partner or sturdy cooler is available, perform as many assisted pull/chin-ups as possible. Rest 30-60 seconds between sets.
Optional: If no pull-up bars are available, perform the following: Delt Rows Video Example
Optional: You can use a lower hanging pull-up bar and a sturdy cooler to perform assisted pull/chin-ups.
Optional: If you have a friend available, you can bend your knees and have a friend assist you by pulling up on your knees.
7 - Tricep Dips
Video Example
Start seating on a park bench (or similar raised flat surface) with your feet flat on the floor and your legs bent out slightly more than 90 degrees. With your palms flat on the bench and your fingers facing the same direction as your body, push your butt out in the air so that you are being supported by your arms. Perform dips. Rest 30-60 seconds between sets.
8 - Incline Wind Sprints
Video Example
Find a steep hill w/out too much debris and uniform surface. Allow enough flat space at the bottom of the incline to slow down. Sprint quickly up the hill and jog back down. Repeat several times and then rest. Optional: If no suitable hills are available, you can run a step of stairs for an incline workout.
9 - Agility Slalom Run
Video Example
Find a set of trees (or other obstacles/landmarks) that are staggered and spaced on flat ground (pictured at the top of the page). Run around each obstacle, alternating left to right. After the last obstacle, clear to the side of all obstacles and sprint straight back to the start. Rest 30 seconds (or until you catch your breath).
Optional: You can setup a set of cones, spray paint waypoints on the ground or use other means to create the obstacles course to navigate around.
10 - Optional Run
If you're still up for it, either walk or jog a short 1/4 to 1/2 mile course around the park. Walk the entire route to cool down or if you're not tired yet, perform alternating sprints and jogs every 1/8 mile. Walk it out an extra 1/8 mile at the end to cool down after.
Hydrate, Rest and Recover. Good luck!!!

DIRECTIONS
The closest intersection is at the edge of the park.
Map to the following intersection:
Simond Ave & Mattie St, Austin TX 78723
FROM NORTH AUSTIN
  • Head South on I-35
    *** Or just get to E 51st street however you normally would
  • Take the exit toward 51st Street
  • Merge onto I-35 Frontage Rd
  • Turn left onto E 51st St
  • Turn right onto Mueller Blvd
    *** Once on Mueller, Seton Hospital will be to your right
  • At the traffic circle, make a left onto Aldrich St
  • Make the first right onto Simond Ave
  • Go to the 2nd driveway entrance
    *** Has pull-up bars near it, park in the lot or on the street
FROM SOUTH AUSTIN
  • Head North on I-35
    *** Or just get to E 51st street however you normally would
  • Take the exit toward Airport Blvd (237A)
  • Keep right at the fork, follow signs for Airport Blvd S/TX-111 Loop E and merge onto TX-111 Loop S/Airport Blvd
  • Turn left onto Aldrich St
    *** Should be first major stoplight
  • At the traffic circle, continue straight to stay on Aldrich St
  • Make the first right onto Simond Ave
  • Go to the 2nd driveway entrance
    *** Has pull-up bars near it, park in the lot or on the street

Monday, April 30, 2012

Workout: Spring Full Body Circuit 2

Workout: Spring Full Body Circuit 2

Equipment Needed:
  • One pair of light dumbbells
  • One pair of heavy dumbbells
  • Flat bench (or sturdy chair & floor mat)
  • Weighted medicine ball (abs/curls/squats)
  • Optional Replacement: A Single Heavy Dumbbell, Telephone Book or other object (movements are more awkward however)
Tip: When starting out, perform all exercises with light weight (or no weight on the leg exercises) until you learn correct form and become familiar with the routine. This also allows you to figure out your recovery time as light weight may be enough to challenge you initially.
Tip: This workout hits abs, shoulders, chest, biceps, triceps, glutes, hamstrings and calves. It is really a total body workout so allow at least a days rest in between circuits when starting out. Drink plenty of water and get sufficient rest.
Tip: You can alternate this workout with the previously posted Circuit #1

Circuit #2

SUMMARY
  1. Stretch/Warmup
  2. Flat Bench Reverse Crunch
  3. Standing Knee Raises
  4. Knee Push-Ups
  5. Reverse Lunges
  6. Dumbbell Front Raise
  7. Bench Step Ups
  8. Tricep Dips
  9. Medicine Ball Squat Press
  10. Medicine Ball Curls
  11. Single Leg Stand Up
Stretch / Warmup
Stretch your upper body
1- Place your hands on your hips and legs shoulder-width apart. Roll your neck in circles slowly, reversing direction ocassionally.
2 - Look forward and extend your arms out parallel to the ground. Start making small forward circles with your arms. Slowly increase the size of the circles over time until you are making large circles. Reverse direction at this point.
3 - Keep your arms out, look forward and twist your torso back and forth slowly while keeping your arms locked out.
4 - Place your hands back on your hips and roll your hips in a circular fashion clockwise. After 5-10 revolutions, reverse direction.
Stretch your lower body
1 - Legs shoulder-width apart, clasp your hands together and reach toward the sky. Make sure to breathe. After a few seconds slowly bend over and reach toward the ground. Try to keep your head above your heart (unless you're super flexible). Repeat the sky/ground reaches for a few repitions.
2 - With your feet and legs together and your hands at your sides, take a half step forward with your left foot so that your left knee is bent. Take your right foot and step back a whole step so your right leg is straight. Stretch and then reverse feet.
3 - Sit on the ground and attempt to place the bottoms of your feet together. Pull your feet toward your groin area slowly.
Warmup
1 - Perform 10 Jumping Jacks.
2 - Get on the ground and do 5 push-ups on your knees.
3 - Stand back up and do 10 high knees.
4 - Repeat warmup exercises until you feel loose and have a slightly elevated heartrate.

Abs
A - Flat Bench Reverse Crunch
Video Example
Sit near the end of the flat bench. Lay flat back onto the bench. Reach behind your head and hold the sides of the flat bench. Place your legs together and extend them out in front of the end of the bench. They should be parallel to the ground with your butt firmly on the bench still. Perform reps by raising your knees and pulling them in toward your chest & elbows. Release by returning your legs back to the starting position.
Optional: To make it tougher, you can place a weighted medicine ball in between your kness and perform the exercise. Perform at least 10 reps (or as many as you can do if less) and then rest 30 seconds. Repeat at least three times.

B - Standing Knee Raises
Video Example
Stand tall with your feet shoulder width apart. Grab a light weight and hold it with both hands and your arms extended outward about chest high. Perform reps by raising one knee high enough to meet your outstretched arms holding the weight. Relax by returning your feet back to the starting position. Alternate knees each rep.
Perform at least 10 reps per knee (or as many as you can do if less) and then rest 30 seconds. Repeat at least three times.
1 - Knee Push-Ups
Kneeling on the ground, lean forward and place both hands on the ground slightly larger than shoulder width apart. Keep your back straight, knees on the ground and you can optionally cross your lower legs and feet. Perform kneeling push-ups. Rest 20-30 seconds between sets. Decrease rest to increase intensity.
Video Example
Set#1: 10 reps (or until failure if less)
Set#2: Repeat Set #1
Set#3: 5-10 reps (or until failure if you can do 10+)
2 - Reverse Lunges
With your feet together and the weights down by your sides, perform reverse lunges (stepping backwards). Rest 20-30 seconds between sets. Decrease rest to increase intensity.
Video Example
Set#1: 5 reps on each leg w/ light weight in hand
Set#2: Repeat Set #1 but w/ heavy weight in hand
Set#3: 10 reps on each leg w/ light weight in hand

3 - Dumbbell Front Raise
With your feet together and the weights in hand, down in front of your body, perform front raises. The standard grip is to handle the dumbbell with your palms facing your body and parallel to the floor once raised (as in video example). You can optionally have your palms facing your thighs (hands by your sides) and perpendicular to the floor once raised. Rest 20-30 seconds between sets. Decrease rest to increase intensity.
Video Example
Set#1: 10-15 reps w/ light weight
Set#2: 4-8 reps w/ heavy weight
Set#3: Repeat Set #2
Set#4: 10+ reps with light weight (or to failure if less, or skip if wiped from previous set)
4 - Bench Step Ups
Standing in front of the flat bench (or chair), stand w/ feet a little closer than shoulder-wodth apart. Have your arms at your sides w/ the appropriate weight in each hand. Take one foot and place it onto the bench. Push off that same foot and raise the rest of your body up so you can step onto the bench with your other foot. To relax, take the original foot you stepped onto the bench with and step down onto the ground. Once planted, return your other foot to the ground. Perform setp-ups. Rest 20-30 seconds between sets. Decrease rest to increase intensity.
Video Example
Set#1: 5 reps each leg w/ no weight in hand
Set#2: Repeat Set #1 but w/ light weight in hand
Set#3: 10 reps each leg w/ heavy weight in hand

5 - Tricep Dips
Start seating on the bench with your feet flat on the floor and your legs bent out slightly more than 90 degrees. With your palms flat on the bench and your fingers facing the same direction as your body, push your butt out in the air so that you are being supported by your arms. Perform dips. Rest 20-30 seconds between sets. Decrease rest to increase intensity.
Video Example
Set#1: 5 reps
Set#2: 10 reps
Set#3: 5-10 reps (or until failure if you can do 10+)
6 - Medicine Ball Squat Press
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold a weighted medicine ball with both hands and a nuetral grip. If you lack a medicine ball, you can use a heavier dumbbell or other equally heavy object. Perform Squat Presses. Rest 20-30 seconds between sets. Decrease rest to increase intensity.
Video Example
Set#1: 5 reps
Set#2: 10 reps
Set#3: 10 reps or until failure if 10+ (if arms tired, perform without any weight in hand)

7 - Medicine Ball Curls
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold a weighted medicine ball with both hands and a nuetral grip. If you lack a medicine ball, you can use a heavier dumbbell or other equally heavy object. Perform curls. Rest 20-30 seconds between sets. Decrease rest to increase intensity.
Video Example
Set#1: 10-15 reps
Set#2: Repeat Set #2
Set#3: Repeat Set #2 (use heavier ball/object if possible)
Set#4: 10-15+ reps with lighter ball/object
8 - Single Leg Stand Up
Stand in front of a chair or flat bench w/ your legs somewhat close together. Hold your arms out for balance and slightly lift one foot off the floor. Perform a squat using only one leg and take a seat onto the chair/bench behind you. You may extend your raised foot outward for balance if needed as well. Rest a second, and then return to standing using only that same leg to propel you upward. Perform single leg stand ups. Rest 20-30 seconds between sets. Decrease rest to increase intensity.
Note: The example video is performing the toughest version of this exercise by squatting to the ground almost. Based on your individual flexibility and strength, you may want to alter this exercise. Start out squatting onto something relatively high off the ground and easy to accomplish (ex. tall chair or couch). Gradually lower the height of your target squat as your prowess increases. Video Example
Set#1: 4 reps per leg
Set#2: 6 reps per leg
Set#3: Either repeat Set #2 or only do 4 reps per leg but squat to a lower height

Good luck!!!