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What exercises can I do to tone my torso?

RealAge
RealAge
answer

First, grab an exercise ball. Using an exercise ball for stomach toning gives you stronger muscles than if you did the exercises on the floor. Plus, you get bonus benefits, like better balance.

Ab Curl

Sit on the exercise ball, feet flat on the floor, knees hip-width apart and bent at a 90-degree angle. Place your hands behind your head, elbows pointed out, and slowly roll back until your mid to lower back rests on the ball. Pull your ribs toward your pelvis to raise your upper back three to four inches off the ball. Hold for a second and then return your shoulders to the ball. Repeat 10 times.

For Back Building: Supine Bridge

Keep that exercise ball around for this one. Sit on the ball with your knees hip-width apart and bent at 90 degrees, feet flat on the floor. Roll, so that your shoulder blades are resting on the ball and your torso is suspended above -- and parallel to -- the floor. Like a bridge. Tilt your pelvis, so that your bottom dips toward the floor, then bring it back to original parallel position. Relax and repeat 10 times.

For Sleeker Sides: Side-Lying Leg Lift

Put your exercise ball aside; you won't need it for this one. Lie on the floor, on your right side, with your right arm extended in front of you for balance and support. Keep your torso straight, aligning your shoulders and hips so that they form a straight line with your ears. You can bend your right knee slightly for balance. Keep your left leg straight and slowly lift it upward eight to 10 inches. Your left heel, knee, hip, shoulder, and ear should remain in a straight line. Lower your left leg slowly. Repeat 10 times and switch sides.

National Academy of Sports Medicine
National Academy of Sports Medicine
answer

There are two different ways to exercise facial muscles in an attempt to increase tone. One type is an active form of exercise where you can look at a mirror and perform several repetitions of voluntary contractions of specific facial muscles. Another way to exercise the face is through passive exercising, where a cosmetic medical professional provides direct electro stimulation to specific areas on the face and causes certain muscles to contract. While in theory, facial toning through exercise is possible, the efficacy of facial toning techniques have yet to be proved by science. Also, some techniques, such as electro stimulation, can be dangerous if performed too close to the eyes.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.