Add in a ‘half rep’ between reps. Once you get to the bottom of a squat, come up halfway then squat again before coming up. This will keep you in the part of the squat where you are weakest for longer, working your muscles harder.

Try doing bicep curls with light weights as you lunge. This will tone your arms and help you fire up the target muscles – your glutes and legs – as the upward motion of the bicep curl keeps the torso upright.

TIPTOE PLIÉ SQUAT

Benefits:
Targets your inner thighs with a ballet-inspired move. Going on tiptoes also tones your calves, and strengthens your glutes.

How to do it:

• Stand with your feet wider than shoulder-width apart, with your toes pointed out at 45°.
• Engage your core and hold your arms in front of your chest for balance.
• Lift your heels off the floor and squat, keeping your knees above your ankles. Pause, then squeeze your glutes to stand up and slowly lower your heels.
• Start with 2 sets of 15 reps. This can be increased as you improve.