workout program

6 Home Workouts to Try This Week

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Hi Everyone!

This week I have 6-Workouts on my agenda.

Each of these workouts is 40-Minutes long. We are using lots of compound exercises and movements that don’t require equipment. All you need is a little bit of space and a yoga mat or floor surface that you are comfortable working out on.

Below each video you will find a link to the full workout breakdown.

I’ve been working through some of my throwback workouts over the last two weeks as a way to get back on track with my workout schedule. The change in my energy level has been wonderful. It’s an unfortunate reality, but when I’m not working out my energy dips super low and I don’t want to do anything except lay around. When I get myself moving again I feel an immediate improvement in my energy levels. As soon as I finish a workout I notice how happy, energized and positive I feel. In turn I am then more motivated to workout.

Post-yoga #flowglow (heart filter courtesy of snapchat).

I plan to film new workouts this week. My sister is getting married at the end of the week, and lots of family will be in from out of town so I need to be very intentional about how I use my time. I’m in the wedding so I am working out Sun-Friday and taking the weekend off.

Remember, you need to workout consistently, but your life should not revolve around your workouts. They should just be a regular part of your life without preventing you from fully participating in everything else you love (or need to do).

For example, this weekend I helped my mom move. While it wasn’t an “official” workout, functional activities like carrying heavy boxes up and down multiple flights of stairs is definitely a great way to get in exercise. Bonus: I was able to carry furniture and boxes without getting sore or tired, because I exercise and stay active regularly.

Exercise improves your ability to participate fully in your own life. This is what motivates me to stick with it even when I’m not actively working toward a specific fitness goal (like a faster 5K or maximum number of pull-ups).

Right now, what is your workout motivation? What makes you show up and put in the work? There’s no right or wrong answer, but knowing your reason is a great way to stay motivated.

Melissa

You can find me on Social Media: @BenderFitness and on Facebook: @MelissaBenderFitness Pinterest: Pinterest.com/BenderFitness TikTok: @BenderFitness 

If you want to help support BenderFitness so we can keep bringing you new workouts, your donation is greatly appreciated: https://www.patreon.com/BenderFitness.

Shop BenderFitness recommendations on Amazon (we get a small commission, but it doesn’t change the price for you!): https://www.amazon.com/shop/benderfitness

Shop BenderFitness Gear: https://my-store-c67ce6.creator-spring.com

Workout 1:

The Breakdown: https://www.benderfitness.com/2020/04/total-body-sculpt-workout-no-equipment-home-exercises.html

Workout 2:

The Breakdown: https://www.benderfitness.com/2020/04/total-body-sculpt-2-no-equipment-home-workout.html

Workout 3:

The Breakdown: https://www.benderfitness.com/2020/04/total-body-sculpt-workout-3-best-full-body-cardio-burn-exercises-full-length-workout-video.html

Workout 4:

The Breakdown: https://www.benderfitness.com/2020/04/total-body-sculpt-workout-4-great-results-no-equipment.html

Workout 5:

The Breakdown: https://www.benderfitness.com/2020/04/total-body-sculpt-workout-5-effective-no-equipment-home-workout.html

Workout 6:

The Breakdown: https://www.benderfitness.com/2016/11/40-minute-power-yoga-fitness-sculpt-sean-vigue-melissa-bender.html

Time to Rest! Enjoy your rest day and come back next week for a new workout schedule!

15-Minute Total Body HIIT: Body Weight Interval Workout

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Hi Everyone!

This is a fun and fast total body workout routine. This workout uses some of the best body weight exercises to maximize your workout in a short period of time. The workout video and exercise breakdown are below.

I filmed this workout 9-years ago as part of my prep for an NPC Naturals fitness competition in the Bikini division. It’s fun to look back on this time period, and very motivating. At that time I was very strong, healthy and fast. I recently came across one of my workout notebooks from that time, and I was blown away by how quick my running times were. I found my times from an 800-meter (half mile) repeat workout for a total of 3-miles. If you can read my handwriting below you can see the workout breakdown.

Right now I’m at a different place in life (parenting two young children and never seeming to get enough sleep.) While I wouldn’t trade a moment of my time with my family, I’m also tired of feeling sluggish and sleepy all the time. Which means I need to make some changes. This old notebook and video served as a great motivation and reminder to myself of two things.

  1. I know what I am capable of and how to do it.
  2. Short workouts are super effective, especially when you make sure you are working at a good level of intensity. Even though my life is crazy busy right now, refocusing on short but super efficient workouts will help me get back on track.

Here’s the thing, I’m not in bad shape as far as my level of fitness goes. I might not be as fast, but I can go outside and run a few miles without stopping. I’m not uncomfortable in my own skin or with what I see in the mirror. I’ve stayed generally active with my workouts and martial arts. But lately I’ve struggled with my consistency, with making time for myself for exercise and filming and with my overall energy level. For the past two days I was completely derailed by the most horrible menstrual cramps I’ve ever had in my life and my stomach has not been happy with the nutrition choices I’ve been making.

I know that I can feel better, healthier and more energized than I do at this moment in time. And luckily, I know exactly what to do about it. I’ve been sharing that journey here for the past ten years. I just have to recommit to giving myself some small blocks of time to work on my health.

I hope that you enjoy today’s workout. Let me know in the comments what you thought about it. I also want to know about your goals. What holds you back and what small steps can you take to move forward?

Don’t forget, I’ve been posting some new workout tutorials on Pinterest, and I’m *starting* to learn TikTok. I’m so late to the game on this one, but I only have so much time in my day. But be sure to check those out too!

See you soon,

Melissa

You can find me on Social Media: @BenderFitness and on Facebook: @MelissaBenderFitness Pinterest: Pinterest.com/BenderFitness TikTok: @BenderFitness

If you want to help support BenderFitness so we can keep bringing you new workouts, your donation is greatly appreciated: https://www.patreon.com/BenderFitness.

Shop BenderFitness Gear: https://my-store-c67ce6.creator-spring.com

All Levels: Max reps during each 50 second interval, 10 seconds of rest between exercises. 

1. High Knees

2. Burpee

3. Lunge Kick (right)

4. Lunge Kick (left)

5. Decline Mountain Climber

6. 1 Leg Hip Thrust (right)

7. 1 Leg Hip Thrust (left)

8. Speed Skater

9. Jump Squat

10. Plank Jack

11. Single Leg Stand (right)

12. Single Leg Stand (left)

13. Hip Lift/Leg Lift

14. Temple Tap Abs

15. Frogger

This workout can be repeated up to 3X.

No Equipment, Total Body Workout: Tabata Style – Super Effective

No equipment total body workout tabata training
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Hello Everyone!

Welcome to a fantastic total body workout! On the agenda for today I have a Tabata style workout. It’s split into five 4-minute sections, with a short rest break in between sections. As always, you will find the workout video and photo tutorial below.

During each four minute interval, push yourself to get in maximum repetitions. There is a lot of research to show that Tabata style workouts have a LOT of benefits. Some of the benefits of Tabata workouts include: increasing lean muscle mass, boosting both aerobic and anaerobic fitness levels, burns fat, boosts your metabolism and is very time efficient.

Doing just one 4-minute round of tabata style exercises will boost your metabolism and fitness level. Today’s routine stacks five tabata workouts. Challenge yourself, while listening to your body. If you’ve been working out with me for a while you will probably be able to make it through all five tabatas. If you are new to working out you might want to pause the video and take longer breaks between rounds, or even do 1-2 Tabatas, and work your way to doing all five.

Here’s the thing about exercise: the goal is to make you stronger and healthier. So there is a fine line between pushing yourself to get stronger and build your endurance and going overboard. Learning to listen to your body is one of the most important skills you can develop. So push yourself. You’re probably stronger than you think you are.

Our family has been staying super busy and active. The kids have done a Mommy and Me Horse Camp, and my son is doing Martial Arts camp. There are a lot of different ways to stay healthy. Time outdoors, engaged in fun activities is one way our family keeps health fun.

I am still posting a lot of new workout tutorials on Pinterest. They have a new creator rewards program, which has been great for us. If you use Pinterest, please head over there and checkout the tutorials I’ve shared. The best way that you can help keep BenderFitness free is by sharing, liking, commenting, saving and overall interacting with our content.

I hope that you enjoy today’s workout. Let me know what you think about Tabata style workouts in the comments below.

Have fun!

Melissa

You can find me on Social Media: @BenderFitness and on Facebook: @MelissaBenderFitness Pinterest: Pinterest.com/BenderFitness

If you want to help support BenderFitness so we can keep bringing you new workouts, your donation is greatly appreciated: https://www.patreon.com/BenderFitness.

Shop BenderFitness Gear: https://my-store-c67ce6.creator-spring.com

Total Body Tabata Workout

Part 1:

1. High Knees 

2. Burpees

3. Lunge Jumps

4. Frogger 

Part 2:

1. Spiderman

2. Temple Tap Abs

3. Side Plank Reach- Right

4. Side Plank Reach- Left

Part 3: 

1. Jump Squat

2. Mountain Climbers

3. Floor Touch Squat

4. Donkey Kicks

Part 4: 

1. Push-ups 

2. Lunge to Hop- Right

3. Lunge to Hop- Left

4. Reverse Plank Leg Lift

Part 5: 

1. X-Jump

2. Ninja Jump

3. Low Jack

4. Surfer

6-Month Home Workout Challenge: Week 11 #BFBodyFit

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Welcome to #BFBodyFit Week 11. This week we have 6-workouts and one rest day on the agenda. Get out your calendar and plan your workouts for the week/ Check them off through the week as you complete them.

Treat your workouts as you would any other appointment on your calendar. Show up and get them done.

We are more than half way through Month 3 of this challenge. Your consistency has been great, and you are probably noticing improved strength, endurance, and changes to your overall fitness. You are most likely also seeing positive changes in your mood, energy, and more lean muscle.

Take a moment to take stock of how you are feeling at this point. You are doing something fantastic for your health every time you show up for your workouts. At this point you have moved beyond “staying motivated” and built up a consistent workout routine. That deserves Kudos.

Keep up the good work, and let me know how you’re feeling!

Have fun this week!

Melissa

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

For my non-fitness related posts, I am on Instagram as @Melissa_Bender_Life

PPS If you want to help support BenderFitness so we can stay free and sustainable, your donation is greatly appreciated: https://www.patreon.com/BenderFitness

Day 1: Full Body Workout

This Full Body Exercise routine will take 15-Minutes Per Round. You can complete 1-4 Rounds of this routine.

Grab two dumbbells and you are ready to go! If you don’t have weights you can use something from around the house to add resistance, or complete the exercises with Bodyweight only. As long as the workout feels challenging to you, you’re in the right zone of effort.

Equipment: Interval Timer set for 15 Rounds of 10/50, and two dumbbells.
This workout can also be repeated for Reps:
Beginner: 10 Reps
Intermediate: 15 Reps
Advanced: 20 Reps
Burpee
Reverse Lunge Lift-Right
Reverse Lunge Lift-Left
Table Lift-Right
Table Lift-Left
Burpee
Knee Drop Plank
Temple Tap Abs
Plank Jack Pushup
Heel Tap Abs
Burpee
Tricep Drop
Bicep Curl
Shoulder Press
Reverse Plank
Repeat 1-4X

Day 2:

This 10-Minute Per Round Core Workout is Quick, but very effective. You can complete 1-4 rounds of this workout, and if you’re up to it pair it with Up to 30-Minutes of cardio.

Cardio can be walking, running, jump rope, swimming, cycling.

Set your interval timer for 10 Rounds of 10/50.
Ball V-Up
Ball Pull (or Froggers)
Side Knee Tap (Alternating)
Over Head Reach
Decline Spiderman
Side Ball Lift-Right
Side Ball Lift-Left
Core Stretch Reach
Heel Press-Right
Heel Press-Left
Repeat 1-4X
Optional: Pair with 30 Minutes of Cardio

Day 3:

At 16-Minutes per round, this is a quick Total Body Workout. You don’t need any equipment for this routine. Complete 1-3 Rounds of this workout.

Push yourself for Max Reps with good form. Never sacrifice form for speed.

Set Your Timer: 16 Rounds of 10/50.
High Knees
Cheek to Cheek
Cross Jack
Criss Cross Curtsy Lunge
Mountain Climbers
Rolling Situp-Superman to Boat
Side Plank Hip Lift-Right
Side Plank Hip Lift-Left
Leg/Hip Lift
Burpees
Warrior III-Right
Warrior III-Left
Cross Donkey Kick
Heel Tap Squat Jump
Down Dog Hop-Right
Down Dog Hop-Left
Repeat 1-3X

Day 4:

Grab your Dumbbells for this one! If you don’t have dumbbells get creative and use something from around the house, or do body weight variations of the exercises. Work with what you have, and if you need suggestions for an exercise variation or substitution leave a comment below, letting me know which exercise you are struggling with.

1. Dumbbell Rotational Lunge (right)
2. Dumbbell Rotational Lunge (left)
3. Curtsy Lunge Kick (right)
4. Curtsy Lunge Kick (left)
5. Tricep Extension
6. Bent Over Row
7. Dumbbell Skier Swing
8. Warrior Deadlift (right)
9. Warrior Deadlift (left)
10. Side Kick Press (right)
11. Side Kick Press (left)
12. Chair Twist
13. Tricep Drop
14. Single Leg Tap (right)
15. Single Leg Tap (left)

Day 5:

At 15-Minutes per round, this Cardio HIIT workout is quick, but fantastic! Really push yourself during this routine to get in max reps. You should be out of breath, it should feel difficult. Don’t be afraid to get sweaty! That’s what this workout is all about.

On a Scale of 1-10, aim for a workout intensity of 8-9 during each interval. If it feels easy, it’s time to amp it up.

Calorie Burn after one round of this workout: 222 Calories.
Mountain Climber
Burpee
Lunge Jumps
Frog Hopper
Low Jack Hop
Single Leg Heel Tap Hop-Right
Single Leg Heel Tap Hop-Left
Pushup Jack
Squat Jump
Russian Kick
High Knees
Mountain Burpee
Lunge Hop-Right
Lunge Hop-Left
Touch Tuck Jump
Repeat 1-3X

Day 6:

Below you will find two videos. The first is today’s workout. The second video is a tutorial on building to a pull-up. Pull-ups are amazing for strengthening your back.

Repeat 1-4X
1. Pull Ups
2. Bent Over Row
3. Bent Over Fly
4. Back Extensions or Supermans
5. Leg Extension or Prone Heel Tap
6. Deadlift
Stretch:
1. Up/Down Dog
2. Pelvic Tilt
3. Knee to Chest and Extend (right)
4. Knee to Chest and Extend (left)
5. Twist (right)
6. Twist (left)
Foam Roll

How to Build to a Pull-up

Day 7: Active Rest Day

6-Month Home Workout Challenge: Week 10 #BFBodyFit

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Welcome to Week 10 of the #BFBodyFit Home Workout Challenge! You are doing a fantastic job sticking with the program.

We have a fun workout week on the planner. Get out your calendar and mark down your workouts. Having them written down someplace that you can see them will help you stay accountable. Plus, it feels great to mark them as completed!

Determination is more important than motivation.

Your motivation may fluctuate, but keep showing up for yourself and your health and get your workouts in.

I included 7 workouts this week, so feel free to stack two workouts or do an active rest day if that is too much for your body.

A huge component of the #BFBodyFit Challenge is for you to learn how to listen to your body’s cues. I want you to become best friends with yourself, and treat your body with kindness and care. That includes regular exercise, and “checking in.”

You wouldn’t just assume that your best friend is doing fine, or see symptoms of fatigue and ignore them. If your friend was hurt or sick, you would check in and see what you can do to help. Treat yourself and your body the same way.

Have fun this week!

Melissa

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

For my non-fitness related posts, I am on Instagram as @Melissa_Bender_Life

PPS If you want to help support BenderFitness so we can stay free and sustainable, your donation is greatly appreciated: https://www.patreon.com/BenderFitness

Workout 1:

Total Body Home Workout-No Equipment Needed.

30-Seconds of Cardio Between Each Exercise*
Exercises 1-5 are a Warm-up. If you are already warmed up you can go higher intensity for each interval and cardio burst.
In/Out Squat
Knee to Elbow-Right
Knee to Elbow-Left
Low Impact Burpee
Butt Kicks
Elevator Plank-Right
Elevator Plank-Left
Angle Abs
Single Leg Hip Thrust-Right
Single Leg Hip Thrust-Left
Goddess Tuck Pulse
Walking Push-up
Side Plank Stretch-Rotating
Runner’s Lunge Lift-Right
Runner’s Lunge Lift-Left
March in Place
Repeat 1-3X

Workout 2:

12-Minute Core Workout. No Equipment, Muscle Sculpting Exercises.

Seated Lean to Lift
Table Press
Kneeling Side Hip Press-Right
Kneeling Side Hip Press-Left
Boat Heel Slide-Alternating
Swimmer
X-Squeeze Me
Down Dog Tap and Heel Press-Right
Down Dog Tap and Heel Press-Left
Seated Twist
Rotating Plank
Plank Crunch
Repeat 1-3X

Workout 3:

20-Minute Cardio HIIT and Sculpt Workout. I use a jump rope for my cardio bursts, but you can do rope-less jumping, high knees, Jumping Jacks or another cardio of choice.

Set your timer for 15 rounds of 30/50 seconds. 
  -Jump Rope
1. Burpee
  -Jump Rope
2. Supergirl Pushup
  -Jump Rope
3. High Knees
  -Jump Rope
4. Down Dog Hop (right)
  -Jump Rope
5. Down Dog Hop (left)
  -Jump Rope
6. Mountain Climber
  -Jump Rope
7. Leg Lift Plank
  -Jump Rope
8. Side Lunge Puch
  -Jump Rope
9. Single Leg Hip Thrust (right)
  -Jump Rope
10. Single Leg Hip Thrust (left)
  -Jump Rope
11. Walk the Plank
  -Jump Rope
12. Hop to Lunge (right)
  -Jump Rope
13. Hop to Lunge (left)
  -Jump Rope
14. Crescent Pushup (right)
  -Jump Rope
15. Crescent Pushup (left)

Workout 4:

Core and Butt Workout with Cardio Burn. You don’t need any equipment for this workout, although I use a stability ball for a couple of exercises. In the video I also demonstrate body weight only variations of the exercise for anyone who doesn’t have access to equipment.

Jump Rope
2. Bridge/Ball Pull
3. High Knees
4. Side Plank Leg Circles-Right
5. Speed Skater
6. Side Plank Leg Circles-Left
7. Squat Jumps
8. Bird Dog
9. Static Skips with Arm Reach
10. Leg Lift/Bicycle/Hip Lift
11. Burpees
12. Tricep Leg Circles-Right
13. Russian Kicks
14. Tricep Leg Circles-Left
15. Mountain Climber
16. Plie Pulse Squat
Repeat 1-3X

Workout 5:

16-Minute Total Body Workout. Let’s work a little bit of everything with this workout routine!

1. Burpee Uppercut
2. Temple Tab Abs (tap right, tap left=1 rep)
3. Side Plank L-Lifts (left)
4. Side Plank L-Lifts (right)
5. Burpee Uppercut
6. Slow rolling abs
7. Alternating Leg lifts (right)
8. Alternating Leg Lifts (left)
9. Power Knee Ups (right)
10. Power Knee Ups (left)
11. Burpee Uppercuts
12. V-Leg/hip lift
13. 3 Kick Series (front kick, table kick, roundhouse=1 rep) (right)
14. 3 Kick Series (left)
15. Burpee Uppercut
16. Superman Crunch with Twist
Repeat 1-3X

Workout 6:

Legs and Core Workout. Today we focus on the large muscles of the lower body, and working our core from every angle.

Equipment: Buy a Gymboss now. Interval Timer & Dumbbell. 
Curtsy Lunge with Calf Raise-Right
Curtsy Lunge with Calf Raise-Left
Lunge Kick-Right
Lunge Kick-Left
Glute Bridge to Calf Raise
Lunge Jump Twist
Walk the Plank Pushup
Angel Abs
Toe Touch Plank Reach-Right
Toe Touch Plank Reach-Left
Camel Reach
Dive Bomber
Repeat 1-4X

Workout 7:

20-Minute Plyometric Pilates Fitness Fusion. Start with a fantastic Pilates workout with Sean Vigue. And finish with a BenderFitness HIIT.

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.

6-MONTH HOME WORKOUT CHALLENGE: WEEK 9: #BFBODYFIT

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Welcome to this week’s workout program! I have 7 great workouts on the agenda for us this week.

We are starting off the week strong, with a Total Body Burpee Burn. Then we move into a Core and Legs focused workout to start targeting specific muscle groups. On day 3 we are back for another Total Body workout. Day 4 is a Quick Stomach Toning Workout. Day 5, grab a couple of dumbbells for some resistance training. Day 6 is a Glute/Butt Shaping Workout. Day 7 is all about stretching. Don’t skip your stretching! It’s an important part of the process. If the yoga is too intense for your active rest day, do some gentle stretching.

This schedule can be modified to fit your needs. You can substitute 1-2 workouts for rest days. Aim to get in at least 5 great workouts this week. Track your workouts, or post social media check-ins to help yourself stay accountable. I love seeing your posts and having a chance to cheer you on. Having a support system, whether it’s in person or online, can help you stay consistent with your goals.

Thanks for working out with me! Have fun this week, and let me know which workout is your favorite! I love to see your workout check-ins. Seeing your posts keeps me motivated.

Take some time this week to give yourself kudos for making it to Week 9 of the #BFBodyFit Workout Program. You should be noticing some changes in your fitness, endurance, and energy levels by now. Check in with your body, and see how you are feeling and what changes you are noticing. These changes may be physical, mental, emotional, or improved overall health. Each area of your wellness is equally important.

Enjoy and have fun! Let’s get stronger together. 

 Melissa

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

For my non-fitness related posts, I am on Instagram as @Melissa_Bender_Life

PPS If you want to help support BenderFitness so we can stay free and sustainable, your donation is greatly appreciated: https://www.patreon.com/BenderFitness

Workout 1:

Burpee Body Burn Workout.


30 Seconds Cardio, 50 Seconds Max Reps
*I accidentally skipped one exercise so this is a 19 minute workout. 
*I chose Burpees for my cardio. Other options include: Jump Rope, High Knees, or Jumping Jacks

-Burpee
1. Pendulum Hop
-Burpee
2. Frog Hopper
-Burpee
3. Curtsy Lunge Kick (right)
-Burpee
4. Curtsy Lunge Kick (left)
-Burpee
5. Mountain Runners
-Burpee
6. Plank Jack
-Burpee
7. Rockette Kicks
-Burpee
8. Speed Skater
-Burpee
9. Double Kick Lunge Jump
-Burpee
10. Leg Lift Plank
-Burpee
11. Plie Jump
-Burpee
12. Mountain Climber
-Burpee
13. Side Lunge Lift (right)
-Burpee
14. Side Lunge Lift (left)

Workout 2:

Core and Legs Workout.

March and Kick
Single Leg Pendulum-Right
Single Leg Pendulum-Left
Kneeling Leg Rotation-Right
Kneeling Leg Rotation-Left
Tip Toe Chair Walk
Figure 4 Pulse & Press-Right
Figure 4 Pulse & Press-Left
Cat Bow Series-Right
Cat Bow Series-Left
Spiderman Sweep
Half Leg Lift
Temple Tap Abs
Criss Cross Legs
Plank to Updog
Core Wiggle

Repeat 1-3X

Workout 3:

Full Body Workout.

Intervals: 16 Rounds of 10/50

Reps:
Beginner: 10 Reps-30 Second High Knees
Intermediate: 15 Reps-40 Second High Knees
Advanced: 20 Reps-50 Second High Knees

High Knees
Decline Pushup Split Squat
Curl, Press, Tricep Drop
Side Plank Elbow Tap Leg Lift-Right
Side Plank Elbow Tap Leg Lift-Left
Slow Squat to Jump Squat
Reverse Plank Kick to Pushup-Alternating
X-Jump to Tuck Jump
Oblique Scissor-Right
Oblique Scissor-Left
Heel Press Plank & Row or Pushup Row
Plank to Warrior III-Right
Plank to Warrior III-Left
Arm/Tricep Extension
Temple Tap Abs
High Knees
Repeat 1-3X

Workout 4:

Quick Stomach Toning Workout


Beginner: 10 reps
Intermediate: 15 reps
Advanced: 20 reps

1. Scissor Situps
2. Extended Heel Tap
3. Lift and Tuck
4. Balanced Side Crunch (right)
5. Balanced Side Crunch (left)
6. Hip Lift Circle
7. Bicycle
8. Reverse Crunch
9. Side V-Up (right)
10. Side V-Up (left)

Workout 5:

Standing Dumbbell Workout

Set Your Interval Timer: 10 Rounds of 15/50.

1. Goblet Squat
2. Warrior Deadlift-Right
3. Warrior Deadlift-Left
4. Bent Over Row
5. Curtsy Lunge-Right
6. Curtsy Lunge-Left
7. Dumbbell Swings
8. Lawn Mower Row-Right
9. Lawn Mower Rose-Left
10. Lunge to Press
Repeat 1-3X

Workout 6:

Butt Shaper Workout

This workout can be performed as a HIIT 15 round 10/50 workout
I completed this workout for Reps.
Beginner: 10 reps
Intermediate: 15 reps
Advanced: 20 reps

1. Lunge Kick Switch
2. Warrior Deadlift (right)
3. Warrior Deadlift (left)
4. Pretzel (right)
5. Pretzel (left)
6. Side Squat Lift (right)
7. Side Squat Lift (left)
8. Kneeling Side Kick (right)
9. Kneeling Side Kick (left)
10. Down Dog Hop (right)
11. Down Dog Hop (left)
12. Plie Jump
13. Prone Leg Lift (right)
14. Prone Leg Lift (left)
15. Goddess Heel Lift
Repeat 1-3X

Workout 7:

25-Minute Yoga Flow

6-MONTH HOME WORKOUT CHALLENGE: WEEK 8: #BFBODYFIT

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Hi Everyone,

Welcome to a brand new week of workouts!

This week we have six workouts on the agenda. Get ready for a fantastic week of exercise to strengthen your body and improve your overall health and wellness. If you are brand new to BenderFitness workouts, remember that you can modify the exercises to suit your personal needs. That can mean doing a lower impact variation of an exercise, or adding weights to increase the intensity of the workout.

Any easy way to modify an exercise, is to take the plyometric (jumping) version of the exercise and make it low impact. For example, Squats can be substituted for Squat Jumps, or Alternating Lunges for Lunge Jumps. Side Planks are very challenging for most people, so if you aren’t quite ready for the harder variations, hold a static side plank. Remember to listen to your body and adjust as needed.

As you progress through these exercises you will build strength, endurance, power and overall fitness. When you stick to your program you will see and feel your body growing stronger. Before you know it, you will be pushing through these workouts for max reps without rest breaks.

This week’s schedule includes HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training), LIIT(Low Intensity Interval Training), and Yoga. You will also get in a few Total Body Workouts, along with a Lower Body Workout and Core focused workout.

Thanks for working out with me! Have fun this week, and let me know which workout is your favorite! I love to see your workout check-ins. Feel free to tag me in your photos or videos on Instagram and I might share them to my story. Seeing your posts keeps me motivated.

Enjoy! Let’s get stronger together. 

 Melissa

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

For my non-fitness related posts, I am on Instagram as @Melissa_Bender_Life

PPS If you want to help support BenderFitness so we can stay free and sustainable, your donation is greatly appreciated: https://www.patreon.com/BenderFitness 

It’s workout time! This week’s schedule is below.

Workout 1: Total Body Cardio Fat Burning Workout

Beginner: 10 reps
Intermediate: 15 reps
Advanced: 20 reps
OR: Interval Style 35 seconds of Cardio, 55 seconds Max Reps 
1. Mountain Climbers
2. Lunge Jump
3. Jumping Jacks
4. Dive Bomber/Up-Down Dog
5. High Knees
6. Pendulum Squat
7. Mountain Climbers
8. Oblique V-Up (right)
9. Jumping Jacks
10. Oblique V-Up (left)
11. High Knees
12. Single Leg Tricep Squat (right)
13. Mountain Climbers
14. Single Leg Tricep Squat (left)
15. Jumping Jacks
16. Plank Donkey Kick Side Jump
17. High Knees
18. Plie Jump
19. Mountain Climbers
20. Plank to Toe Walk
Repeat 1-3X

Workout 2: Standing Lower Body Workout

Interval Timer set for 15 Rounds of 10/50
1. Squat to Lunge-Right
2. Squat to Lunge-Left
3. Squat Jump
4. Table Kick-Right
5. Table Kick-Left
6. Low Jack
7. Warrior III-Right
8. Warrior III-Left
9. Lunge Jump
10. Sumo Twist-Right
11. Sump Twist-Left
12. Surfer
13. Curtsy Lunge Kick-Right
14. Curtsy Lunge Kick-Left
15. Pendulum Squat
Repeat 1-4X
Optional: Pair with 30 Minutes of Cardio

Workout 3: 18-Minute Total Body HIIT Workout

18 rounds of 10/30 and two dumbbells. 
Dumbbell Weight of Choice: Recommend 3-12 lbs. 

Repeat 1-3X

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

Workout 4: Plyo HIIT and Cardio Burn

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

Workout 5: Total Body Workout

Set Your Interval Timer for 10 Rounds of 10/30
*30-Seconds of Cardio Before Each Exercise*
Low Impact Burpee
Lunge to Hydrant-Right
Lunge to Hydrant-Left
Down Dog Cross Kick-Right
Down Dog Cross Kick-Left
Leg Drop Series
Reverse Plank Step Out
Angel Abs
Side Plank Foot Tap-Right
Side Plank Foot Tap-Left
Repeat 1-3X

Workout 6: Yoga Stretch and Strength

Workout 7: Rest or Active Rest Day

Rest Day. You can also choose to have an active rest day, and incorporate some gentle movement in your day. Keep it low intensity, you shouldn’t be getting out of breath or going at a higher intensity. Rest helps you gain strength and prepare for a new week of workouts.

6-Month Home Workout Challenge: Week 6: #BFBodyFit

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Welcome to this week’s Home Workout Schedule! We have six workouts on our planner this week, so get ready to get in some amazing workouts.

Plan out your workout days, and write them on your calendar to stay accountable and on track.

A couple of the workouts in this week’s schedule require equipment (dumbbells, jump rope and a chair), however, if you don’t have equipment you can do the exercises with Bodyweight only.

There is always a way to modify the workouts to suit your needs! This home workout program is meant to give you a great way to build your strength, endurance, health, and fitness from anywhere, for free.

Accountability is an important part of consistency, so feel free to check in by commenting below, or posting and tagging BenderFitness on your social media posts.

Don’t forget to have fun, push hard and work up a sweat! We are excited to workout with you!

Day 1:

21-Minute HIIT Full Body Workout. For this workout, grab some dumbbells, a chair (or something you can put your feet up on), and a jump rope. If you don’t have dumbbells or a jump rope you can complete all of the exercises with body weight.

Set your interval timer for 21 Rounds of 10/50. 
1. Jump Rope
2. Deadlift
3. Quadruped Leg Raise
4. Jump Rope
5. Warrior Deadlift (right)
6. Warrior Deadlift (left)
7. Dive Bombers
8. Jump Rope
9. Split Squat (right)
10. Split Squat (left)
11. Plank Walkouts
12. Jump Rope
13. Lunge Pulse Press (right)
14. Lunge Pulse Curl (left)
15. Superman
16. Jumpe Rope
17. Plank Cross Row with Floor Tap
18. Folded Twist
19. Jump Rope
20. Curtsy Lunge (alternating)
21. Pigeon Stretch (alternating)
Repeat 1-3X

Day 2: 

This 20-Minute Boot Camp Sculpt doesn’t use any equipment. It’s a great Total Body Workout, and can easily be performed as a LIIT routine. For a LIIT (Low Impact Interval Training) version of this workout complete High Knees Marching for each cardio interval, and do a Plie Squeeze, instead of the Plie Jump.

Set your Interval Timer for 15 Rounds of 30/50. 
Cardio: High Knees or Jump Rope.
*For a LIIT (Low Impact Interval Training) version of this workout complete High Knees Marching for each cardio interval, and do a Plie Squeeze, instead of the Plie Jump.
*Cardio
1. Wood Chopper (right)
*Cardio
2. Wood Chopper (left)
*Cardio
3. Side Lunge Kick (right)
*Cardio
4. Side Lunge Kick (left)
*Cardio
5. Plie Squat Jump
*Cardio
6. Alternating Warrior III/Chair
*Cardio
7. Hip Thrust (right)
*Cardio
8. Hip Thrust (left)
*Cardio
9. Mountain Climber
*Cardio
10. Toe Tap Push-up
*Cardio
11. Plank Crunch
*Cardio
12. Side Plank Hip Lift (right)
*Cardio
13. Side Plank Hip Lift (left)
*Cardio
14. Plank to Dolphin
*Cardio
15. Plank to Lunge
Repeat 1-3X

Day 3: 

This is a Total Body HIIT workout that will get you moving and laughing. Working out with Jesse is always fun!

Set Your Interval Timer for 15 Rounds of 30/50.
*30-Seconds Cardio before Each Exercise*
Squat Jump
Superman to Push-up
Lunge Lumps
Side Plank Reach Through-Right
Ninja Jumps
Side Plank Reach Though-Left
Single Leg Squat Jump-Right
Spiderman Push-up
Single Leg Squat Jump-Left
Leg Scissors
Over the River (Mat) Jump Squats
Reverse Plank Hold
Single Leg Calf/Heel Raise
Rock the Boat
Single Leg Calf/Heel Raise
Repeat 1-3X

Day 4: 

This is a quiet, low impact, standing workout. You don’t need any equipment, but you will get a great workout for your core and glutes.

Swaying Goddess-Right
Swaying Goddess-Left
Tip Toe Single Leg Pulse-Right
Tip Toe Single Leg Pulse-Left
Tick Tock Goddess-Right
Tick Tock Goddess-Left
Trunk Rotation
Back Stretch to Flat Back
Star Tap-Right
Star Tap-Left
Leg Abduction/Rotation-Right
Leg Abduction/Rotation-Left
Repeat 1-3X

Day 5:  

Tighter Tush and Abs workout. When I filmed this workout, I combined it with running one mile mid-workout. Another great option is to pair it with my 10-Minute Jump Rope Workout for a bonus cardio burst.

All Levels: As many reps as possible for each minute of exercise. The numbers in parenthesis are the number of reps I managed for each exercise my first time through. I was talking the second time, so I didn’t count for that round.
1. Plank Lift (I did 28)
2. Plank Leg Lift (alternating legs) (48)
3. Heel Pulse (86)
4. Bridge Pulse (67)
5. Bicycle (107)
CARDIO: I ran a mile, other alternatives are 10 minutes of jump roping, or one of the cardio workouts in the cardio tab above. Riding on a stationary bike, high knees, and jumping jacks are other great options. 
1. Rib Push (46)
2. Leg Lift/Hip Lift (20)
3. Oblique V-up (right) (27)
4. Oblique V-up (left) (26)
5. Butterfly sit-up (14)

Day 6: 

23-Minute Yoga Fitness Flow. Don’t skip yoga! This great stretch and strength flow will help prevent injuries. Flexibility is an important part of fitness.

Thanks for working out with me! Have fun this week, and let me know which workout is your favorite! You can follow along with the workout video playlist above, or the individual workout breakdowns below.

❤

 Melissa

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

For my non-fitness related posts, I am on Instagram as @Melissa_Bender_Life

PPS If you want to help support BenderFitness so we can stay free and sustainable, your donation is greatly appreciated: https://www.patreon.com/BenderFitness