Marlo Alleva demonstrates a close/wide stance side to side squat. [PIERRE DUCHARME/THE LEDGER]

Whew! We have hit the ground running in 2020. Literally.

Some break in the new year with a bang; others ease into their groove; either way, as long as you are moving.

The lower body is a target zone for many whether it is to tighten up and tone, build balance and endurance, or simply to increase strength. It’s the whole lower half of our body so our options are plentiful.

Our move today is a close/wide stance, side to side squat. This move will be targeting inner and outer thighs, quads, and hamstring and build coordination also.

All you need is a good area to move around in. You can also add hand weights for extra resistance.

Begin this exercise by standing tall, holding your chest up, core engaged, and feet slightly wider than your hips.

Start by “sitting into” your squat. Go as low as you can efficiently hold this position, and step one leg out to a “wide stance” squat, quickly followed by bringing the other leg over to a close stance position, (again).

Now, return to your starting standing post, then immediately return to a squat. And this time, step out to the side with the opposite leg, into another wide stance, bringing the trail leg in close then stand again.

Continue this side to side move for at least 10 times in each direction.

Take a small break, then return for at least two more sets.

This move can be intensified by adding weight, and simplified by returning to a standing position after each squat motion.

And one of the best parts is this can double as cardio too!

Basically, this is a simple lower body move to add into your growing fitness plan for the new year.

Marlo Alleva, an instructor at Gold’s Gym and group fitness coordinator at Fontaine-Gills YMCA in Lakeland, Florida, can be reached at faluvzpa@msn.com.

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2020-01-17T07:01:00Z

Today's Workout Marlo 011720

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