Get Jumping For Fitness...

* She may not be a mom (yet), but Jessica Biel uses jumping movements during workouts.

If plyometrics sounds like some kind of rocket your child is banned from lighting this summer, than you may be missing out on a vital aspect of any fitness regimen. Plyometrics (movements that require jumping) can not only build endurance, bone strength and increased muscle development (i.e. you’ll feel ripped and lean), they are a quick and easy way to burn more calories throughout your day.

Most mothers are too busy to extensively train their bodies or begin complicated regimens, which is why as a personal trainer I often suggest burning calories and fat (in less time)by incorporating plyometrics into a quick circuit routine. (Note: Do not do these movements if your body requires low-impact exercise or is at risk of injury).

• Work Them In: Instead of lifting weights on one day and doing cardio the next, try combining the two for a fast, powerful routine. Try doing 30 seconds of your favorite five strength exercises, and mixing with 30 seconds of easy plyometric movements.

• Get Jumping: Plytometrics are easier than you might think, and burn more calories than simple body-weight movements alone (because they keep your heart rate raised throughout the activity).
- Squat Jump: Dip into a deep squat, but jump straight up the ceiling (landing gently in a squat again), instead of standing up in-between.
- Lunge Switch: Dip into a low, static lunge, and (instead of releasing the muscle by standing), jump up and switch legs in the air… landing in a lunge on the other side.
- Push-Up Jumps: Try lowering into a standard push-up position (modified if needed) and instead of simply straightening your arms, push off of the ground and clap hands…then land in the lowered position again.

• Mix It Up: Try adding a jump to all of your favorite body weight exercises, including simple tricep dips (kick your legs into the air) or wide leg squats (with turned out feet). Get creative and you will truly reap the benefits!

* Have you used pylometrics in your workouts, or do you simply hate these movements? Please rant, rave and share...