Return To Summer 1996 Index
Return To Summer 1996 Index
Speaking from a young blooded females point of view? There is nothing better than looking at a well toned body on the beach, so with summer coming up I thought I would include a few simple exercises to give you lads a chance to shape up for all the girlies on the beach.
Strength in Numbers
To build strong, well-defined calf muscles, pile on the repetitions, not the weight. Unlike the big, powerhouse muscles of the chest, the calves are made primarily of what are called slow-twitch muscle fibres, the kind responsible for endurance. Slow-twitch muscles grow best when you lift lighter weights many times.
So the next time you do calf raises, do two to three sets with a light weight that allows you to do 20 - 30 repetitions.
You can use a calf-raise machine or do standing calf raises.
Calf Raises
Holding a dumb-bell in your right hand, step onto a secure platform high enough so that your heels hang off the edge and your weight is supported on the balls of your feet.
Place your left hand on a wall for support and hook your left foot around the back of your right calf.
Now rise on the toes of your right foot, hold a second, then lower your heel. That is one repetition. After 30, switch the weight to your left hand and repeat the exercise with your left foot.
(I need a beer - Ed.)
