It’s time for Shimmer and shine – the holiday party season is in full effect! Now more than ever, it’s essential to squeeze in some necessary toning. From short skirts to that little black dress, we all want elongated legs and a perky butt. The key to it all is achieving the perfect squat. Below, I’ve listed a few of my favorite moves that produce quick, head-turning results. And some bounce back tips because it is that time of the year when we all go to parties and get-togethers with family and friends, and like me we may indulge at times.

The Perfect Narrow Squat

Stand with your feet touching and hold your hands comfortably in front of your chest to help you stay balanced. Bend your knees, lowering your hips deeply, bringing your thighs parallel with the floor if you can. Your weight should be back onto your heels. Then rise back up, straightening the legs completely and squeezing the glutes.

To make this move more challenging, you can kick your leg out behind you as you rise up, alternating sides.

The Perfect Sumo Squat

Stand with your feet wide and toes pointing out. Your hands should be comfortably in front of your chest to help you stay balanced. Bend your knees, lowering your hips deeply so your thighs are parallel with the floor; your weight should be on your heels. When you rise back up, straighten the legs completely and squeeze the glutes.

Now, for an effective move that will tighten up your entire body if done correctly. When you have good form, a plank will strengthen your arms, legs and butt muscles. You need to make sure your body is properly aligned and you stay as still as possible. Good form will give you the best results.

The Perfect Plank

Start in a push-up pose, with your body straight and your hands directly under the shoulders, slightly wider than shoulder-width. Push your toes into the floor and squeeze the glutes to keep stable. Your legs should be working too, but DO NOT hyperextend the knees. Your neck and spine should be neutral. It’s good to find a focal point on the floor that is about a foot beyond where your hands are planted. Your head should be in line with your back.

REMEMBER, IT’S OK TO HAVE SOME FUN. SO RELAX, IT’S THE THINGS THAT YOU DO MOST OF THE TIME, THE CONSISTENCY, THAT WILL HELP YOU WIN! OK, FIRST, JUST BREATH…

RELAX! It’s all going to be ok!! Here are my tips on how to help you recover the next day! Stop freaking out about that bad stuff you consumed. This is SO NORMAL! It’s ok to have some fun!

TRY THESE STEPS TO HELP YOU RECOVER THE NEXT DAY:

  • Forgive yourself
  • Drink a ton of water
  • Make a plan to move your body! Walk, move, something to get you moving.

Okay, ladies, there you have it. Drink plenty of water, keep your body moving and make time to tone. Grab that dress, regardless of the color and rock it well.