Step-up with diagonal chop

The step-up exercise with a diagonal chop is a compound exercise, meaning it works more than one muscle group. The prime movers are your quadriceps muscles, assisted by your hamstrings, glutes and calves. You will also work your abs as they contract during the twist of the chop. Your lower back will act as a stabilizer to help you maintain good posture during the exercise

Stand up straight in front of a bench with your feet shoulder width apart. Clasp your hands together and raise your arms up toward your right ear as you step up on the bench with your right foot. Push through, lifting your left knee up to your navel as you flex your abs and rotate your torso, bringing your arms down to the side of your left knee.

Slowly bring your arms back up to the starting position and lower your left foot, then your right foot back to the ground. Repeat. Do three sets of eight to 10 reps on each side. For added resistance to the arms use a medicine ball or a single dumbbell.

Gina Cruz can be reached at [email protected]