Phase 1 Beginner: Day 5 Phase 1 Beginner: Day 5

Dumbbell box squat

Target: Glutes, hamstrings, quads

Form tips:

• Core locked and back straight as you squat – don't round or arch your back as you touch down.
• Squat down only as low as you are comfortable.
• For better control, think about pushing the floor away with your feet.

Modification – Bulgarian split squat:

• Switch to this unilateral exercise using lighter weights to work on any strength imbalance between legs.

Dumbbell deadlift

Target: Back, glutes, hamstrings, quads

Form tips:

• Shoulders down, arms locked out and keep the dumbbells in close to your sides.
• Engage your core to help keep a straight back.
• Hinge at your knees and hips on the both the way up and down.
• Don't crane your neck as you lower yourself down. (Avoid looking in the mirror!)
• Think about pushing the floor away with your feet as you rise up, then squeeze your glutes as you stand tall.

Alternating dumbbell forward lunge

Target: Glutes, quads, hamstrings, core

Form tips:

• Make sure you are well balanced before lunging.
• Watch your knees aren't caving inward – they should be moving in the same direction as your toes.
• Try to create a 90 degree angle with your forward knee when you lunge.

Modification – Bulgarian split squat:

• This static variant will help you build greater hip stability if you struggle with control.

Dumbbell alternating skater lunges

Target: Glutes, quads, hamstrings, hip abductors and adductors

Form tips:

• Only move at a pace that allows good foot placement and control.
• Focus on loading up your front leg.
• Ensure your knees are moving in the same direction as your toes.

Modification – Alternating curtsy lunge:

• If poor hip mobility or knee pain prevents you from getting into the lunge position with good form, curtsy lunges will work similar muscles without as much demand on the knees.

Dumbbell calf raise

Target: Calves

Form tips:

• Shoulders back and down, chest up and body in a straight line.
• Activate core and glutes.
• Lock your legs – your ankles should be the only joint moving.
• Keep movement slow and controlled, aiming for maximum raise and contraction at the top of the raise.