24 Aug Power blocks / Dumbbell workout tips for legs

Are you looking to get more out of your power blocks and/or dumbbells?
This week I’ll offer some good workout tips to put those Pbs and Dbs to use. Today, we take a look at the legs.
Dumbbell squats – When most people think of squats they picture using a straight bar movement.
However, for a different twist try dumbbell squats.
Stand straight with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding the dumbbells or power blocks at your side.
In the same motion squat and hammer curl the Dbs or Pbs to shoulder height.
Return to upright position and perform a squat.
Repeat this process for 8-12 reps. Remember to keep your core tight for the duration of the lift.
*Tip – The heavier you go the more important your form on curling the weight up to rack position for the squat. Keep your core tight and power up with the legs, keeping back straight and you’ll be fine.
For a bit of cross training, perform a clean press after reaching the top of the squat. After you reach the standing position of the squat, wait for a second and then power the Dbs or Pbs over head. Return to shoulders and then to side.
Calf raises – Pick up Dbs or Pbs and hold in neutral grip, shoulder-width apart at your side. Arch up on your toes as high as you can go, hold for a count and then return to flat position. Repeat for reps of 15-20. Once you get the hang of doing calf raises you will be able to do a good amount of weight.
* Tip – For added calf training do one-legged calf raises. You can also try to find a good support where you can go down lower, such as doing calf raises on a board or stair step. Just be careful of your balance.

At Home Fitness consultant Aaron Dorksen’s blog deals with a variety of fitness topics, ranging from workout tips, motivational ideas and feature stories on how exercise impacts people’s lives. E-mail him with comments, questions or ideas for future blogs at aaron@athomefitness.com