Lose inches with Shape Magazine's fitness model workout!

The amazing push up!

Do you ever look at pictures in Shape or Self magazine and wonder how the models get their perfect bodies?  Well, most likely they have been photoshopped to perfection but in real life, they are not far from it.  When I was in California recently, I was lucky enough to have Karena Dawn, a fitness model, show me and my pal Katrina the workout she used to get in shape for a recent shoot with Shape Magazine.  It's a total body fat burning circuit workout you can complete in just 20 minutes!  Try this routine three days a week!

Self Magazine Fitness Model Workout

This workout is 20 minutes, and includes a resistance move followed by 30-60 seconds of cardio like running up stairs, jump rope, running or even jumping jacks.  You do not need any equipment to complete this workout.

• Push ups (20 reps)
  
  • To make this move more difficult try putting your feet up on a stair.
  • To make it easier, place knees down on the ground.
• 60 seconds of Cardio

Jump Squat

To make sure you are doing your push ups properly, start out in table top position with your spine in neutral position.  Extend one foot back, then the other.  If hand feel more comfortable wider than shoulder width, then feel free to do so for your own comfort.  Moving on to the second resistance move...

• Jump Squats (20 reps)
  • With feet hip distance apart, squat down bringing arms down by sides.  Once your thighs are parallel to the ground, swing your arms back and jump up raising your hands high above your head.  Land on your toes lightly and bend your knees going directly into your next squat.  DO NOT lock your knees when you land.
  • To make this move easier, simple do not jump, just squat.
• 60 seconds of Cardio

It's important to remember that you should not be resting in between moves and cardio sets.

Tummy Tuck

• Tummy Tucks (20 reps)
  • Starting out in plank position, bring your right knee to your right elbow shifting your core weight with your leg.
  • If this is too hard simply bring knee into chest rather than out to the side.
• 60 seconds of Cardio

Tricep Extensions

Now find a bench or something that is at least 2 feet off the ground for the last resistance move.

• Tricep Dip (20 reps)
  
  • Place hands on the edge of the bench.  For a harder exercise extend legs out straight.  Beginners can keep knees bent.  Lift yourself off the bench and hang your butt just a couple inches in front of the ledge.  Lower your self down towards the ground and push yourself back up using your triceps.
• 60 seconds of Cardio

That is the circuit one time through.  For a total body 20 minute fat burning workout, repeat this two more times!  If you are unsure about any of the moves, watch the video version of this workout on YouTube (it's only 4 minutes long but enough to show you the moves!) Enjoy.