‘Tis the season for fun family gatherings, lots of holiday events, and wondering how the heck you’re doing while working out. I’m always a fan of fast dumbbell circuits, but even more so during such a busy season. I always enjoy the great feeling when I grab a pair of dumbbells, put on my headphones, and 20 to 30 minutes later I’m sweaty and energized to tackle the rest of the day.
For today’s post, I wanted to share a quick workout that you can do anywhere during the holiday season. All you need is a medium-sized pair of dumbbells and a mat. Please let me know if you try it! (As always, speak to a doctor before making any fitness changes, and respect your body.)
Strength circuit training for vacation
Form notes and tips:
Squat down to upright row
Holding a pair of dumbbells, keep your chest lifted and shift your weight to your heels as you squat and walk backwards. Exhale and squeeze your butt to lift, performing an upright row at the top.
Jump squats
Make sure to land gently with your knees bent. As you jump up, stretch your arms up and try to add some lightness to the movement. Squat as low as you can and stretch as high as you can.
Curtsy lunges
Cross one leg back and behind the other and perform a curtsy lunge. The front foot stays flat on the ground and the heel of the back foot lifts off the ground.
Froggers
Start in the plié squat position. Bring your hands down to touch the floor (keep your chest up). Jump up and land, touching the ground.
Bicep curl to overhead press
Holding a dumbbell, squeeze your biceps and exhale as you arch. Inhale to bring the weights to 90 degrees and exhale to press overhead.
Push-ups to Renegade Row
Start in a plank position, on your knees or toes, holding the dumbbells in both hands. Keep your hips in line with your spine and exhale as you squeeze your chest to lift. Lift a dumbbell and squeeze your back to bend your elbow toward your torso, keeping it close to you. Lower the position and repeat on the opposite side.
Scissors
Exhale so your head and shoulders are off the floor, holding onto the back of your knee with both arms. Alternate legs by keeping your legs straight or bent and engaging your core.
Note: These images were originally taken as part of a paid sponsorship that is still in the approval process, but I wanted you to have access to this training content over the holidays. I covered the cost of the clothing out of my own pocket.
These tights are supportive, not see-through (<— very important) and are perfect for strength training and orange theory. They also have a wide range of sizes on offer.
This fleece is a classic Under Armor staple and also makes a great holiday gift. You can find them in many different colors for women, men and children. They are very soft and cozy for lounging around or wearing to and from the gym.
Please let me know if you try the workout and what you think! I’m going to do a quick cardio workout and meet a friend from college for coffee. 🙂
I hope you have a wonderful morning and see you soon!
xo
Gina
Photos from Kristi Harris
