return to Better You > Exercise & Fitness

Mar 2010  |  By Chris DeJong  |  Comments

Swimmer's Arms Without Getting Wet

Sleeveless dresses, bathing suits, tank tops—time to get your arms toned. Swimming gives you slim arms, plus it’s a great total body workout, but if you can’t make it to a pool, this move mimics the freestyle stroke on land. It tones your arms, shoulders, back and core muscles.

To prepare: Wrap a resistance cord around a stationary object so that it is secure. A doorknob works great.

To see each step as described here, please click on the photo gallery.

Step #1 - Stand with feet hip-width apart, knees slightly bent, and arms outstretched so that resistance cord is taut. During the move, keep your head and neck aligned with your spine.

Step #2 - Begin slowly moving your right arm down and back towards your hips while keeping your left arm outstretched in front. Maintain tension in the cord and do not allow the cord to jerk your right hand forward.

Step #3 - Continue moving arm in a counterclockwise motion by driving your right elbow up. When done correctly, your elbow should always be higher than your hand.

Step #4 - Complete the 360 degree rotation. Repeat with left arm.

Start with 16 strokes (eight per side) and increase as you feel comfortable. If a resistance cord isn’t available, this move may also be done with light dumbbells.