Philadelphia viewers looking for an easy, equipment‑light exercise can add a curtsey‑style leg lift to their daily routine. The move, demonstrated by fitness instructor Shoshana on WPVI’s “Today’s Tip,” focuses on the hamstrings and glutes, two muscle groups essential for stability, posture, and everyday activities.
How to perform the curtsey leg lift
1. Stand with feet hip‑width apart, hands on hips or relaxed at your sides.
2. Shift weight onto your left foot and lift your right foot, bending the knee so the thigh moves behind the standing leg, similar to a curtsey.
3. Extend the lifted leg backward, engaging the hamstring and glute of the moving leg.
4. Return to the starting position and repeat for the opposite side.
You can complete the exercise with body weight alone or hold light dumbbells (2‑5 lb) for added resistance. Aim for 10‑12 repetitions per side, performing two to three sets depending on your fitness level.
Benefits for everyday life
The hamstrings and glutes play a crucial role in walking, climbing stairs, and lifting objects. Strengthening these muscles helps reduce the risk of lower‑back strain and improves balance, which is especially important for families with active children and older adults who value mobility.
Because the movement is low‑impact, it is suitable for a wide range of fitness abilities. Parents can demonstrate the exercise to their kids as a fun way to stay active at home, and seniors can incorporate it into a gentle routine that supports joint health.
Tips for safe execution
Maintain a neutral spine throughout the motion; avoid rounding the lower back. If you feel any discomfort in the knees, reduce the range of motion or keep the weight on the standing leg until strength improves. As with any new activity, start slowly and increase repetitions gradually.
For additional guidance, viewers can revisit previous fitness tips on the 6abc website (6abc.com/TodaysTip) or follow WPVI’s social channels for weekly wellness content.
Integrating the move into a daily schedule
Fit the curtsey leg lift into a morning stretch, a mid‑day break, or a post‑dinner cool‑down. Even a brief 5‑minute session can activate the targeted muscles and contribute to overall fitness goals.
By incorporating this simple yet effective exercise, Philadelphians can strengthen key muscle groups without needing a gym membership or extensive equipment, aligning with a family‑focused, health‑conscious lifestyle.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
