Now that summer is in full swing, many of us are searching for ways to look even better in our favorite bikinis. And while opting for ab-toning workouts may be the first choice for many people, some are after toned glutes. Luckily, there’s no shortage of fantastic exercises you can work into your daily routine to get that bum toned and beach-ready.
As it turns out, picking up some Pilates moves is one promising way to go. To discover a couple of the best glute-toning Pilates exercises you can add to your workout this summer, we spoke to certified Pilates instructor Lesley Logan. She told us that a single leg kick and a shoulder bridge are two of the best choices. Read on for more info and instructions on how to complete each!
1. Single Leg Kick
Logan says one of the best places to start if you’re looking to tone your glutes is with a single leg kick. This classic move is perfect for targeting not only your glutes, but your hamstrings as well. Here’s how she says its done:
1. Laying on your stomach, prop yourself up on your forearms.
2. Open your collarbones and pull your heart forward.
3. Reach your tailbone towards your heels and lift your abs away from the mat.
4. Press your legs down on the mat parallel.
5. With a pointed foot kick one heel towards your seat 2x.
6. Stretch the leg to straight and repeat on the other side. Do 5-8x each side.
Here’s an extra tip to make sure you’re doing it right: “Notice if you’re lifting your hips as you kick or rocking hips side to side,” she says. “You should feel the hamstring/glute working with each kick.” Got it!
2. Shoulder Bridge
Next up on Logan’s top picks for Pilates moves that can help you get those toned buns of your dreams is a shoulder bridge. She offers two different variations for this one, based on your ability.
Here’s the basic intermediate version:
1. Lay on your back with your knees bent, feet and knees a fist distance apart.
2. Arms pressing long by your sides, maintaining weight evenly across your heels and the balls of both feet, lift your hips up.
3. Hold your hips up and lift one foot 1 inch of the mat
4. Set your foot down and repeat on the other side, marching right and left 5-10x.
For something a little easier, go through steps 1-2 and simply lower your hips back down.
Those looking for something more advanced can take the following steps after 1-2:
3. Reach one leg to straight and point to lift it up.
4. Flex the ankle to lower a straight leg down as far as your glutes can hold your hips up. Repeat 3x and switch legs.
The bottom line
There are many great exercises to achieve the booty of your dreams, and the best way to reach any fitness goal is to come up with a plan that works for you personally. However, Pilates is one fantastic route to take. By incorporating these instructor-recommended moves into your routine, you’ll be one step closer to the ultimate toned glutes this summer.
READ MORE: How Many Miles Do You Have To Walk Every Day To Lose Weight? We Asked A Personal Trainer.
