15 Minute Plyo HIIT Workout: Burn Fat Fast

Hi Everyone!

I hope you’re ready to sweat with today’s workout! This workout utilizes a lot of fun and challenging plyometric movements. Plyometric exercises have been shown to improve your speed, muscle power, endurance, and have a high caloric burn.

This is a great workout for burning fat, and improving strength, overall athleticism, and power of movement. As always, focus on form throughout the routine. You can repeat this workout up to 3X, or pair it with a run/cardio of your choice. For maximum results aim for a total workout time between 30-60 minutes.

This is one of my favorite workouts, and it is the #1 most popular/viewed workout on my Youtube Channel. (If you want to Subscribe directly to my Youtube channel you can do so here: https://www.youtube.com/c/melissabender.

I am filming a new workout today, plus my newest BodyRock Mom workout will be up on the BodyRock Facebook page live at 2 PM tomorrow.

I have good news on the Patreon front! I mentioned the other day that my entire page was accidentally deleted and all pledges were deleted. It looks like they were able to restore the pledges that were previously made to help support BenderFitness and get us new equipment. If you want to help (even $1 per month helps! If everyone who used BenderFitness contributed $1/month we would be able to dedicate ourselves to blogging full time, plus have a great filming team) you can do so here: https://www.patreon.com/BenderFitness.

I hope you enjoy today’s workout!
Melissa

PS You can find me on Social Media: @BenderFitness and on Facebook: @MelissaBenderFitness and Jesse is on Instagram: @BenderCrosby1

15 rounds of 10/50.

1. Jump Rope (or Ropeless Jumping)
2. Squat Jump
3. Tuck Jump Burpee
4. Bridge Hopper (right)
5. Bridge Hopper (left)
6. Frogger
7. Warrior Lunge Jump
8. Speed Skater
9. Mountain Hopper
10. Tap & Punch Squat Jump
11. High Knees Burpee
12. Down Dog Hop
13. Wide Leg Frogger
14. Lunge Jump
15. Russian Kicks

Repeat 1-3X

15 Minute HIIT Cardio Fat Burn: No Treadmill/No Equipment Necessary: Body Weight Workout

Good Morning Everyone!

It’s workout time! Yesterday I posted a great Low Impact Lower Body Workout. Today we are picking up the intensity with a 15-Minute Per Round Cardio Workout. You can repeat this workout if you have time, or pair it with another workout of choice.

Warm Up before you workout. Your warm up should be simple, enough to get your heart rate up and your bloom pumping a little bit, some gentle walking or jump rope is a great option. This will help prepare your body to maximize the burn and work at a higher level during the workout. Push yourself to get in your maximum number of reps during each interval.

I am finally filming a new workout tonight! I will be 35-Weeks Pregnant tomorrow so be prepare for some major baby bump! That said, it’s still a great workout for anyone who isn’t pregnant too. I did the new workout twice last week, and Jesse did it once.

34 Weeks and 6 Days Pregnant!

Have fun with today’s workout! I will see you later!

Melissa

PS I am on Instagram & Twitter: @BenderFitness and on Facebook: @MelissaBenderFitness

10/50: 10 Seconds Rest, 50 Seconds Max Reps

1. High Knees
2. Jump Squat
3. Russian Kicks
4. Frogger
5. Mountain Climbers
6. Toe Tap High Knees
7. Side Lunge Jump
8. Lunge Kick (right)
9. Lunge Kick (left)
10. Surfer
11. Mountain Runner
12. Plie Jump
13. Burpee
14. Lunge Jump
15. High Knees

20-Minute Plyometric Pilates Fitness Fusion: BenderFitness & Sean Vigue Fitness

Hi Everyone!

Happy Mother’s Day to any of the Mom’s out there!

I hope you’re ready for today’s workout! Today I have a special collaboration with Sean Vigue from www.SeanVigueFitness.com. Today’s workout combines Pilates with a Plyometric HIIT workout.

Sean is a talented fitness instructor, and specializes in Yoga and Pilates, as well as teaching a variety of Boot Camp and fitness classes. He is also the author of several fitness books, including Power Yoga for Athletes, which I really enjoyed. Sean and I filmed this workout collaboration last summer.

We also filmed a 20-Minute Cardio Core: Workout Fusion together, which you can find here: https://www.benderfitness.com/2015/06/20-minute-cardio-core-workout-full-body-weight-loss-abs-exercise-sean-vigue-melissa-bender.html.

This is a great challenging workout to sculpt and tone your entire body, with a special emphasis on strengthening the core. A strong core is foundational for all other exercises. This routine will challenge your body in a variety of ways. Strength, isometric and isotonic movements, plus cardiovascularly. This is a fantastic full body workout challenge.

Have fun with today’s workout! Last night we celebrated Mother’s day with Jesse’s mom, and today we are celebrating with my family. We decided to do Bike Riding as a family. We are able to rent the pull behind pods for my niece and nephew.

I hope you enjoy today’s workout combo!

Melissa

PS You can find me on Instagram & Twitter: @BenderFitness and on Facebook: www.facebook.com/MelissaBenderFitness.

Part 1:

Pilates with Sean Vigue

Part 2: Plyometric HIIT

*30-Second Cardio Burst Between Each Exercise. Recommended: Burpees*

Mountain Climber
Tuck Jump
X-Jump Pushup
Russian Kicks
Bridge Hopper-Right
Bridge Hopper-Left
Alternating Frogger to Side Plank
Donkey Kick

Repeat 1-3X
Optional: Pair with 30-Minutes additional Cardio of Choice.

Fit & Healthy Workout Challenge: Day 21: 23-Minute High Intensity Interval Workout: Full Body Cardio (HIIT)

Hi Everyone!

We are starting Week 4 of my 4-Week Workout Challenge today! I hope you enjoyed your rest day yesterday, because we are going into this week strong! Today’s workout will take 23-Minutes Per Round.

You can repeat this workout 1-2X or pair it with an alternate cardio to make your total workout time between 30-60 Minutes today. This is a high intensity workout that will get you sweaty, especially if you push through and try to get in as many reps as you can with each interval. Be sure to warm up before starting the workout.

Your warm up should be 5-10 minutes of dynamic movements (Jogging, walking, jumping jacks, jump rope, leg swings, etc) to get your heart rate up and your muscles warm. Stretching should be save for after your workout. You don’t want to stretch cold muscles.

Enjoy today’s workout!
Melissa

Max Reps During Each 60 second interval, 30 seconds of High Knees between exercises.

*Beginners start with 30 seconds of max reps, 15 seconds of rest (or high knees) between exercises.
*HIIT workouts are very intense. Push yourself, but also listen to your body and be sure to warm up first.

1. Decline Pushups
2. Double Squat Jump
3. Burpee
4. Reverse Hook Crunch
5. Spiderman Plank
6. Frogger
7. Lunge Jump
8. Surfer
9. Single Leg Frogger
10. Temple Tap Abs
11. Frog Hopper
12. Curtsy Lunge Kick (right)
13. Curtsy Lunge Kick (left)
14. Rotating Side Plank Crunch
15. Squat Twist

Repeat 1-2X

Fat Burning Core Workout & Plyo HIIT Fat Burn Home Workout

Hi Everyone!

I have two workout options for you today! The first workout is a Core Focused Fat Burn, and the second workout is a Plyo HIIT Fat Burn. If you do one round of each workout your total workout time will be 33-Minutes & you will get in a fantastic burn!

You can also choose to do one workout today, and save the other workout for tomorrow. Being consistent with your workouts is more important than having one really intense workout day.

So far this week our workout schedule has looked like this:

Sunday: 10-Minute Standing Workout: Abs, Thighs & Butt

Monday: 20 Minute HIIT Boot Camp: Core & More Fat Burn

Tuesday: Better Booty Home Workout

Wednesday: That’s today! Fat Burning Core Workout & Plyo HIIT Fat Burn Home Workout.

Thursday: Yoga Stretch or Rest Day headed your way.

Remember to listen to your body throughout the week and adjust the schedule as necessary. If you need to switch rest days you can do that. Add an active walking or stretching rest day if you need it. Be sure to warm-up before your workout, and cool down after your workout. It will help you maximize your results and stay healthy.

Have fun & let me know what you think about the workout on Instagram or Twitter: @BenderFitness or on Facebook: www.facebook.com/MelissaBenderFitness.

Melissa

Workout 1:

Equipment: Gymboss Interval Timer set for 18 rounds of 10/50 and two dumbbells.

Dumbbell Weight of Choice: Recommend 3-12 lbs.

1. Dumbbell High Knees

2. Dumbbell Jump Squat

3. Spiderman Plank

4. Temple Tap Abs

5. Dumbbell High Knees

6. Dumbbell Jump Squat

7. Crunch and Tap

8. Heel Press Plank

9. Dumbbell High Knees

10. Dumbbell Jump Squat

11. Reverse Bicycle

12. Mountain Tapper

13. Dumbbell High Knees

14. Dumbbell Jump Squat

15. Hip Lift Hook

16. Forearm Plank to Down Dog

17. Dumbbell High Knees

18. Dumbbell Jump Squat

Dumbbell High Knees

Dumbbell Jump Squat

Spiderman Plank

Temple Tap Abs

Crunch & Tap

Forearm Plank Heel Press

Reverse Bicycle

Hip Lift Hook

Forearm Plank

Forearm Plank to Down Dog

Workout 2: Plyo Cardio HIIT

Equipment: Gymboss Interval Timer set for 15 rounds of 10/50

Repeat 1-3X

Extended Plank Workout: Core Workout for Love Handles, Abs & Back

Hi Everyone!

It’s workout time!

Today’s workout is focused on the core. It’s a challenging Plank Workout. If the variations of this workout are to intense you can try my 4-Minute Plank Workout.

In the video I did 30-seconds of plank for each pose. If you want a more intense workout you can extend the intervals to 60-seconds per pose. You also have the option of repeating this workout.

The variations I used in this workout will target your core from every angle: front, sides and back. As always, focus on using the correct form. I also included a cardio video below as an optional bonus burn. If you want to see more definition through your mid-section you need to combine strengthening with fat burning.

I paired the Extended Plank Workout with a 5-Mile Run outside. I enjoy combining core and cardio for maximum results. Have fun with today’s workout!

Melissa

Plank
Side Plank-Right
Star Side Plank-Right
Reverse Plank
Side Plank-Left
Star Side Plank-Left
Reverse Plank Lift-Right
Reverse Plank Lift-Left
Supergirl-Right
Supergirl-Left
Oblique Hold-Right
Oblique Hold-Left

Repeat 1-3X
Optional: Pair with 30-Minutes of Cardio

Cardio Bonus Burn Option:

Max reps 50 seconds, 10 seconds rest.

1. Cross Donkey Kick
2. Jump Rope (or Ropeless Jump)
3. Surfer Burpee
4. Jump Rope
5. Lunge Hop Switch
6. High Knees
7. Mountain Climber
8. High Knees
9. Russian Kicks
10. High Knees
11. Jump Kick (right)
12. Burpee
13. Jump Kick (left)
14. Burpee
15. Punching Side Lunge Hop

Plank

Side Plank

Star Side Plank

Reverse Plank

Reverse Plank Lift

Supergirl Plank

Oblique Hold

12 Minute Leg & Arm Burnout HIIT Workout

Hi Everyone!

This workout is a 12 Minute Leg & Arm Burnout Workout. It’s challenging, but effective. You will be dripping sweat by the end of the workout.

This workout combines Plyometric moves and Push-up variations. The intervals are shorter so be sure to push yourself to get in as many reps as possible without sacrificing form. You can substitute planks variations for the pushups if the movements become to intense. There is always a way to modify.

Jesse and I arrived in Los Angeles, California today. We are having a great trip so far! We will be filming some new workouts while we are here, but first I need to catch up on my sleep! The time change has me thrown off schedule. Properly resting your body impacts your health just as much as getting in a good workout.

Have fun with this routine. I will get a new one posted ASAP. Enjoy!
Melissa

Equipment: Gymboss Interval Timer set for 24 Rounds of 10/20.

1. High Knees
2. Sumo Pushups
3. Squat Jumps
4. Walking Pushups
5. Lunge Jumps
6. Single Leg Pushup (Alternating)
7. Plie Jump
8. Shoulder Tap Pushups
9. X-Jump
10. Supergirl Pushups
11. Heel Tap Squat Jump
12. Heel Tap Pushup

Repeat 2X=1 Round

Complete 1-3 Rounds
Optional: 30 Minutes of Cardio

Plyo HIIT Fat Burning Body Sculpt Workout: Body Weight (15 Minutes Per Round)

Hi Everyone!

I have a throwback workout for you today! Jesse and I are getting ready to go out of town so we didn’t have time to film a new workout last night.

This is workout #17 of my HIIT the New Year Hard Workout Challenge. This is a full body, cardio, fat burning workout. It’s intense and very effective. According to my heart rate monitor I burned 179 calories during one 15-Minute round of the workout (and that doesn’t include the after burn!)

If you have followed my first 30 Day Instagram Challenge all of the moves in this workout will be familiar to you. I just finished up a second Instagram workout challenge, so you will be seeing those moves in a new workout soon too!

During the workout get in as many reps as you can during each 50 second interval. If you need to rest, take a quick break and get right back into it. The workout is supposed to be hard, and you are supposed to be working at maximum effort. You should be breathing heavy. You get out of your workouts what you put in.

That said, if you need to modify some of the moves that’s okay. For example:

-Burpee you can skip the pushup, and do a plank instead.

-Lunge Jump you can step forward, and squeeze before switching legs, instead of jumping.

-Ninja Jump: step both feet forward into a low squat and squeeze to stand.

You want to work to your maximum potential, so do the hardest variation that you can handle. If you aren’t up to the hardest variation yet, put this one your list to repeat. As you grow stronger you will be amazed at what you can accomplish.

I hope you all enjoy today’s workout!

Melissa

PS You can find me on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest. Jesse has also been posting sneak peek workouts moves/tutorials on his Instagram page.

I am hosting a 30 Day Bonus Move Workout Challenge on my Instagram Page. You can find me: @BenderFitness

PPS My sports bra is from www.affitnity.com and you can get 15% off of your total purchase with the code BenderFitness at checkout.

–Gymboss Interval Timer set for 15 Rounds of 10/50.

1. Burpee
2. Mountain Climber
3. Jump Squat
4. Russian Kicks
5. Lunge Jump
6. Frogger
7. Surfer
8. Mountain Jumper
9. Tuck Jump
10. Frog Hopper
11. Ninja Jump
12. Plank Jack
13. Speed Skater
14. Hip Lift Hook
15. Tuck Jump Burpee

Repeat 1-3X

Burpee

Mountain Climber

Russian Kicks

Lunge Jump

Frogger

Surfer

Mountain Jumper

Tuck Jump

Frog Hopper

Plank Jack

Speed Skater

Hip Lift Hook

Plyometric Pilates Fitness Fusion: BenderFitness & Sean Vigue Fitness: Body Weight Workout

Hi Everyone!

I hope you’re ready for today’s workout! Today I have a special collaboration with Sean Vigue from www.SeanVigueFitness.com. Today’s workout combines Pilates with a Plyometric HIIT workout.

Sean is a talented fitness instructor, and specializes in Yoga and Pilates, as well as teaching a variety of Boot Camp and fitness classes.

I am a firm believer in the benefits of changing your workouts and incorporating multiple workout styles into your routine. When you continue to change the workouts and the challenge, your body continues to adapt and improve. Remember, there is always a way to modify the workout if you have a hard time with a specific move.

I apologize for the sound in my portion of the video. I didn’t realize that my air conditioning system was turning on/off while I was working out, and the camera picked up the white noise.

I hope you enjoy the workout!
Melissa

PS I did this workout in addition to a 4.5 mile run outside with running guru, Shep, and our friend Nicole. Every time I run with Shep I come a little bit closer to committing to running a Marathon in November….

Part 1:

Pilates with Sean Vigue

Part 2: Plyometric HIIT

*30-Second Cardio Burst Between Each Exercise. Recommended: Burpees*

Mountain Climber
Tuck Jump
X-Jump Pushup
Russian Kicks
Bridge Hopper-Right
Bridge Hopper-Left
Alternating Frogger to Side Plank
Donkey Kick

Body Weight Workout Challenge (No Equipment)

Hi Everyone!

It’s time for a new workout! This workout is set up a little bit differently. It’s only 5 exercises, and the challenge is to complete 5 rounds. The video is below.

You can set this routine up a few ways:

Complete 5 Rounds, 10 Reps Per Exercise. Time the workout to see how long it takes you to complete all 5 rounds.
Set your interval for 25 rounds of 10/50 for a 25-Minute HIIT version of this workout.
Set your timer for a pre-selected length of time (IE 15 or 20 Minutes) and get in as many rounds as possible (AMRAP).
When you are pressed for time get in one quick round of this workout as a metabolism/energy boost.

Each technique will give you a great workout! It’s fun to switch up the challenge, and it keeps your body from adapting to a specific workout style. I like versatility in my workouts, because I like to be ready for any opportunities/experiences life might throw my way!

In other fitness related news: I ran the Pittsburgh Half Marathon yesterday. I ran it with two friends, and it was a very different experience compared to my first two Half Marathons. I will be writing a post about the experience, so be sure to check back! After running, I also did my second Sky Dive! It was a day full of adventures!

Have fun with today’s workout!

Melissa

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After the Pittsburgh Half Marathon

10 Reps Per Exercise, Repeat 5X

Burpee
Plie Jump
Single Leg Frogger Pushup
Lunge Jump
Spiderman Plank Jack

Burpee: Part 1

Burpee: Part 2

Burpee: Part 3

Burpee: Part 4

Plie Jump: Part 1

Plie Jump: Part 2

Single Leg Frogger Pushup

Lunge Jump

Spiderman Plank Jack: Part 1

Spiderman Plank Jack: Part 2

12 Minute Leg & Arm Burnout HIIT: Bodyweight Workout

Hi Everyone!

It’s time for a new workout! This one is quick, but intense. I was dripping sweat by the end of it. You don’t need any equipment for this routine.

This workout combines different Plyometric moves and Pushup variations. The intervals are shorter so really push yourself to get in as many reps as possible without sacrificing form. If the pushups become to intense and your form starts to suffer you can switch to the plank variations of each exercise.

I hope you enjoy this workout! I am off to work!

Melissa

Equipment: Gymboss Interval Timer set for 24 Rounds of 10/20.

1. High Knees
2. Sumo Pushups
3. Squat Jumps
4. Walking Pushups
5. Lunge Jumps
6. Single Leg Pushup (Alternating)
7. Plie Jump
8. Shoulder Tap Pushups
9. X-Jump
10. Supergirl Pushups
11. Heel Tap Squat Jump
12. Heel Tap Pushup

Repeat 2X=1 Round

Complete 1-3 Rounds
Optional: 30 Minutes of Cardio

Plyo Cardio Fat Burn: 15 Minute HIIT

Hi Everyone!

I have a throw back workout for you today! This workout is intense, but fun!

This exercise series combines plyometric movements that are designed to sculpt lean muscles, while burning fat. The goal is to complete the maximum number of reps you can during each 50 second interval, with minimal rest between exercises. *Form is always more important than number of reps. You will get more benefit by doing half the reps with appropriate form than double the reps with poor form.

Jesse and I are at the Arnold Sports Festival this weekend. I am going to try and get some new workouts posted, but the internet connection isn’t the best, so they may not be up until we get home.

If you’re at the Arnold stop by the Nutrition Snob Booth #859 and say hello!

You can also find me on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Have fun!

Melissa

Click the link to get your own Gymboss Interval Timer!

Set your Interval Timer for 15 rounds of 10/50.

15 Minute Plyo HIIT Workout: Burn Fat Fast

Hi Everyone!

This is workout #29 of my HIIT the New Year Hard Workout Challenge!

I hope you’re ready to sweat with today’s workout! This workout utilizes a lot of fun and challenging plyometric movements. Plyometric exercises have been shown to improve your speed, muscle power, endurance, and have a high caloric burn.

This is a great workout for burning fat, and improving strength, overall athleticism, and power of movement. As always, focus on form throughout the routine. You can repeat this workout up to 3X, or pair it with a run/cardio of your choice. For maximum results aim for a total workout time between 30-60 minutes.

I hope you all enjoy tonight’s workout!

See you tomorrow with a new one.
Melissa

PS You can also find me on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Jesse has also been posting Sneak Peek workout videos on his Instagram account.

I am hosting a 30 Day Bonus Move Workout Challenge on my Instagram Page. You can find me: @BenderFitness

My Sports bra is from www.affitnity.com. You can get 15% off any purchase with the code BenderFitness at checkout.

Equipment: Gymboss Interval Timer set for 15 rounds of 10/50.

HIIT the New Year Hard: Plyo HIIT Fat Burning Body Sculpt

Hi Everyone!

This is workout #17 of my HIIT the New Year Hard Workout Challenge! This is a full body, cardio, fat burning workout. It’s intense and very effective. According to my heart rate monitor I burned 179 calories during one round of the workout (and that doesn’t include the after burn!)

If you have been following my 30 Day Instagram Challenge all of the moves in this workout will be familiar to you.

That said, if you need to modify some of the moves that’s okay. For example:

-Burpee you can skip the pushup, and do a plank instead.

-Lunge Jump you can step forward, and squeeze before switching legs, instead of jumping.

-Ninja Jump: step both feet forward into a low squat and squeeze to stand.

I hope you all enjoy today’s workout!

Melissa

PS You can find me on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest. Jesse has also been posting sneak peek workouts moves/tutorials on his Instagram page.

I am hosting a 30 Day Bonus Move Workout Challenge on my Instagram Page. You can find me: @BenderFitness

PPS My sports bra is from www.affitnity.com and you can get 15% off of your total purchase with the code BenderFitness at checkout.

Burpee

Mountain Climber

Russian Kicks

Lunge Jump

Frogger

Surfer

Mountain Jumper

Tuck Jump

Frog Hopper

Plank Jack

Speed Skater

Hip Lift Hook

Better Booty Home Workout

Hi Everyone!

Today’s workout is focused on strengthening and shaping your backside. In this routine you will work your butt from multiple angles, which will help strengthen and sculpt your glutes.

I have done a lot of research on the best glute exercises. I am sure you have heard that if you want a better butt you have to squat. That is part of the equation. Squating is actually NOT the best exercise for your butt! You may have also heard “Heavier weights, low reps are the only way to sculpt your butt.” That is also not true.

So what is the truth? Your butt is a series of muscles. To effectively work and strengthen these muscles you need to exercise them in several different planes of motion. They are made up of fast and slow twitch fibers. These muscles respond to both lower rep and higher rep exercises.

GASP! You mean both sides of this argument are correct? I sure do!

Over and over again research has shown that there are positive benefits from incorporating a variety of different movements and styles into workouts.

For more information on Glute Training Myths check out this article from FitnessRX: 6 Glute Training Myths. I love the articles in FitnessRx because they are backed by Peer Reviewed Scientific Studies. If you scroll to the bottom of the article they have links to all of the articles referenced.

Today’s workout incorporates plyometric movements, static movements, single leg movements, and moves your body through multiple planes to target all of the muscles that make up your backside.

I hope you enjoy it!

Melissa

PS You can find me on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest. Jesse has also been posting sneak peek workouts moves/tutorials on his Instagram page.

PPS This workout outfit is from Affitnity. www.affitnity.com and you can get 15% off with the code BenderFitness at checkout.

Equipment: Gymboss Interval Timer set for 15 rounds of 10/50 and two dumbbells.

*I used two 20 lb dumbbells. Choose a weight that is appropriate for you.

1. Sumo Squat Hop

2. Crossing Hip Thrust (right)

3. Crossing Hip Thrust (left)

4. Romanian Deadlift (weighted)

5. Goddess Squat (static)

6. Pendulum Squat Hop

7. Leg Series (right)

8. Leg Series (left)

9. Warrior Dead Lift (alternating) (weighted)

10. Table Top (static)

11. Surfer

12. Hip Thrust (right)

13. Hip Thrust (left)

14. Lunge Twist (weighted)

15. Chair Pose (static)

Repeat 1-3X

Sumo Squat Part 1:
Squat with chest lifted, butt reaching back behind you.
Don’t let the knees collapse in.
Video Tutorial: http://instagram.com/p/vL-0RFGHuG/?modal=true

Sumo Squat Part 2: Immediately Return to Part 1 and Hop Directly into the air. Video Tutorial: http://instagram.com/p/vL-0RFGHuG/?modal=true

Crossing Hip Thrust
Complete all reps right, and then all reps left.
Video Tutorial: http://instagram.com/p/vL9-zQkjbc/?modal=true

Romanian Deadlift
Weight of choice. Focus on keeping the back flat.
Butt reaches back with weight in the heels.
Squeeze through the glutes and hamstrings to return to standing.

Goddess Squat
Hold this position. Thighs lower to parallel or as close as you can with knees pressing outward.
Do not allow the knees to collapse inward.
For increased shoulder ROM extend arms as pictured. Hands can also be placed in prayer position.

Pendulum Squat Hop
Start with both legs together in a close leg squat.
Kick the right leg out to the side with the knee facing forward.
Return to Squat. Repeat Left.
From your starting position hop up, driving your hands toward the ceiling.
Repeat.

Leg Series
Start as pictured above.
Keep the hips lifted throughout the movement.
Core and glutes strong and engaged.
Raise the extended leg toward the ceiling.
Lower the hips toward the floor. Immediately press hips and foot back up.
Lower leg to starting position. Repeat.
Complete reps on both sides.

Warrior/Single Leg Deadlift
Focus on keeping the back flat throughout the movement.
Weights stay close to your body.
Back leg extends, knee facing the floor.
Return to standing between each movement.
Complete all reps on both sides.

Table Top Pose
This is a static pose.
Keep the hips lifted.
Straight line from knees, to hips, to shoulders.
Core and glutes strong and engaged.
Finger tips point toward the heels.
Hands directly below your shoulders.
*If you have decreased shoulder ROM you may not be able to form a straight line with your body.
Flexibility increases with time and practice. Do not force it.

Surfer
Keep the back straight.
Hips press back and lower your thighs toward parallel.
Jump into the air and rotate your body 180 degrees.
As you land focus on keeping the back straight and pressing the hips back.

Single Leg Hip Thrust
Press your extended leg up and toward the ceiling.
Try to lift to a single leg table top position.
Bring the hips back toward the hands and repeat the movement.
Complete all reps and repeat on the other side.

Weighted Lunge Twist
Start in standing position with arms bent at the elbows, weight at shoulder level.
Step back toward the corner of the room.
Turn toward the hip of the forward leg.
Bring the weight to the outside of your hip.
Return to start.
Repeat on the other side, alternating.

Chair Pose
Core tight, extend the hips back and bend at the knees.
Hands can reach over head or hold at prayer position.
Hold this pose.

Iso-Plyo Workout: 15 Minute Interval Workout

Hi Everyone!

This workout is a combination of isometric and plyometric exercises. It is quick (15 minutes), but was a very challenging combination.

Isometric exercises occur when the muscle is contracted, with no change in the length of the muscle during the exercise. Plyometrics are fast movements that cause quick contractions and lengthening of the muscles involved in the exercise (usually with some type of jumping).

Both forms of exercise are beneficial, and they provide different benefits to your body. This workout helps to build muscular endurance, strength and speed. I found the static poses very challenging, especially Dancer Pose. It is quite different to go into this pose during a yoga flow, than immediately after a plyometric exercise. I had to modify the pistol squats, because my legs were completely out of energy by the end of the workout! I knew it would be challenging saving them for last, but I was surprised at the difficulty. Remember, form is number one! Better a modification than completing an exercise with poor form.

I hope you all enjoy the workout! It can be repeated up to 3X and/or paired with 30 minutes cardio of choice.

There will be a brand new workout posted later tonight. 🙂
Melissa

PS You can also find me on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Jesse has also been posting Sneak Peek workout videos on his Instagram account.

Click the link to get your own Gymboss Interval Timer!

Advanced: Max Reps during each 50 second interval, 10 seconds of rest in between each exercise.
Intermediate: 40 second interval, 15 seconds rest
Beginner: 30 second interval, 15 seconds rest

1. Frogger
2. Extended Hold
3. Mountain Climber Cross
4. Warrior 3
5. Jumping Lunge Kick
6. Warrior 3
7. Jump Squat
8. Dancer Pose (right)
9. Dive Bomber
10. Dancer Pose (left)
11. Side Lunge Tap
12. Boat Pose
13. Pistol (right)
14. Down Dog
15. Pistol (left)

Diet Bet Challenge: Day 29: 15 Minute Plyo HIIT Workout: Burn Fat Fast

Hi Everyone!

We are down to the last two workouts of the Diet Bet challenge! Today is Day 29. Hopefully you have seen changes in more than just your weight, and are feeling healthier, stronger, more endurance, and more fit overall.

I hope you’re ready to sweat with today’s workout! This workout utilizes a lot of fun and challenging plyometric movements. Plyometric exercises have been shown to improve your speed, muscle power, endurance, and have a high caloric burn.

This is a great workout for burning fat, and improving strength, overall athleticism, and power of movement. As always, focus on form throughout the routine. You can repeat this workout up to 3X or pair it with 30 minutes cardio of choice.

I hope you all enjoy tonight’s workout!

Melissa

Check in on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter to let me know how you’re doing with your goal!

PS My sports bra is the Spider Back from Affitnity. I’m an Ambassador for Affitnity so you can get 15% off at checkout by using the code BenderFitness. 🙂

Equipment: Gymboss Interval Timer set for 15 rounds of 10/50.

Diet Bet Challenge: Day 9: Jump Away Jiggle and 800 Meter Repeats

Hi Everyone!

Welcome to Day 9 of the DietBet Challenge!

This is a great fat burning, and toning workout. I paired it with a running workout, so I only went through it one time. If I hadn’t paired it with a running workout I would have repeated it up to three times. Choose whichever method works best for you! If you are running go for 1-2 rounds of the workout. If you aren’t running repeat the workout 2-3X.

This series of exercises utilizes compound moves for a full body workout. Keeping the rest time in between each exercise short also increases the calorie burn of this workout.

I paired this with an 800 meter repeat workout. I completed my run in 800 meter (half mile) increments. I chose a challenging pace, and ran this on the treadmill. It can also be completed outside. If your local high school or college has a standard sized (400 meter) track that would be two loops around the track.

I ran six 800s, with short rest breaks in between each half mile. I kept my rest breaks in between each interval to about 1:30 to 2 minutes. When you are first starting with this type of workout you should keep the rest breaks equal to the running time. For example, if you run an 800 in 4 minutes, rest for 4 minutes before the next one. As your cardiovascular system progresses you will be able to decrease the amount of rest time in between intervals. It is important to select a pace that is challenging to you. I followed my run with a walk to cool down.

My workout breakdown was as follows. Remember, if you try this workout select an appropriate pace for you. Also, be sure to warm up! (.5 Miles=800 Meters)

1. .5 Miles: 3:02 Minutes (Treadmill speed 10, Incline 1)

Break

2. .5 Miles: 3:15 Minutes (Speed 9.5)

Break

3. .5 Miles: 3:07 Minutes (Speed 9.6)

Break

4. .5 Miles: 3:00 Minutes (Speed: 10.1)

Break

5. .5 Miles: 2:58 Minutes (Speed: 10.1)

Break

6. .5 Miles: 2:56 Minutes (Speed 10.2)

Total Distance: 3 Miles

Total Run Time: 18 Minutes, 18 Seconds

I find that I always have more energy as the run progresses so I picked up the pace a little bit. The first mile or so of a run is the hardest for me, as my body warms up and transitions into running mode. Jesse tells me that is the sign of a true distance runner. 🙂

I hope you guys enjoy the workout!

Melissa

Don’t forget to check-in on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter once you have completed your workout!

Click the link to get your own Gymboss Interval Timer!

Beginner: 10 reps, 30 second interval
Intermediate: 15 reps, 45 seconds,
Advanced: 20 reps, 60 seconds

1. Mountain Climbers (timed)
2. Lunge Jump
3. 3-Way Frogger
4. Squat Jump
5. Spiderman Push-ups
6. Lunging Side Kick
7. Plank Reach Stretch
8. Ninja Jump
9. Knee Drop Plank
10. Knee Tap

Repeat 1-3X

Plyo Cardio Fat Burning Workout (HIIT)

Hi Everyone!

This workout is intense, but fun! I am still on injured reserve, but I am happy to report that I am feeling much better! My neck starts to hurt if I stay in the same position for to long or spend to much time on the computer, but it isn’t as sore throughout the day.

Hopefully you are all putting in some good workouts for me (I envy you right now!)

You can also find me on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Have fun!

Melissa

Click the link to get your own Gymboss Interval Timer!

Set your Interval Timer for 15 rounds of 10/50.

15 Minute Plyo HIIT Workout: Burn Fat Fast

Hi Everyone!

I hope you’re ready to sweat with today’s workout! This workout utilizes a lot of fun and challenging plyometric movements. Plyometric exercises have been shown to improve your speed, muscle power, endurance, and have a high caloric burn.

This is a great workout for burning fat, and improving strength, overall athleticism, and power of movement. As always, focus on form throughout the routine. I was planning on repeating this 3X, but Jesse asked me to join him for a run. I switched up my plan and went through this 1X, paired with a 5.5 mile run outside.

This is a non-fitness related shout out, but one of my best friends (and former Swing Dancing partner! High School photo flashback alert!) developed a new app. He has been a huge support to me, and even designed the logo for my website. His app is a free investment game where you can win gift cards to different companies from sports wear to restaurants. You can check it out here: http://www.stock-up.biz If you have a moment and you like winning gift cards please check it out and support my friend. 🙂

I hope you all enjoy tonight’s workout!

See you tomorrow with a new one.
Melissa

Equipment: Gymboss Interval Timer set for 15 rounds of 10/50.

Bender Fitness

Fitness Should Be Free

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