The Yardwork Workout

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toning with tools

Certified strength and conditioning specialist Liz Neporent developed the following muscle-toning exercises. For best results, do two sets of the exercises each time you do outdoor chores. In a little time you’ll develop the muscles that fatigue most easily while working around the yard.

Lawn Mower Lunges
Stand up tall and hold the handle of your mower with a firm grip. Step forward with your right foot and push the mower. As soon as your right foot lands, bend both your knees until your left knee hovers just above the ground. Stand up and immediately step your left foot forward into the next lunge. Alternate legs until you’ve traveled the length of your yard (or eight to 12 steps per foot). This tones your butt, legs, and middle.

Spade Chop
Hold a garden spade by the handle in front of your chest, using both hands and bending your elbows slightly. Stand with your feet hip-distance apart. Step your right foot to the side about a stride’s length, shift your weight onto your right leg, and bend your right knee a little. Next, carefully lean forward and reach down to touch the tip of the spade to the outside of your right toe. Return to standing. Do the toe touches 10 times and then switch to the left side for another 10 reps. This is a butt, legs, arms, back, and middle workout.

Leaf Raise
Hold a trash bag half full of leaves or grass clippings in both hands. Stand with your legs hip-distance apart. Keep a slight bend in your elbows and knees, and slowly raise the bag to shoulder height. Hold a second, then lower it back to the starting position. Repeat 10 times. You’ll feel this working your shoulders and arms.