Jumping jacks

Activates muscles of the whole body and develops coordination and fitness used in everyday movement and activity.

Intensity: Moderate
Recommended repetitions: 20-30

Before you get into your workout it’s important to warm up. Just 5 minutes of light activity is all you need. Things like:

Walking
Jogging on the spot
Pumping your arms
Shoulder rolls
Controlled punches
Circular ‘windmill’ arm movements in the air.

  1. Stand with your feet together, knees slightly bent, and arms at your sides
  2. Jump your legs apart, landing with soft knees, while raising your arms overhead
  3. Jump your legs back together, returning to your starting position.

After your workout, cool down by following any of the above activities, again for 5 minutes. This is also a great time to stretch your muscles holding each stretch for 20-30 seconds. Make sure you hold at a point where you can feel the stretch but you shouldn’t feel discomfort or pain. Don’t bounce through these, just slow steady movements.

Disclaimer: If you have been inactive for a while, have heart disease, or a close relative with heart disease or if you have other major health problems, or are pregnant, please check with your doctor before following these workouts.

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