If you've been spending any time at the gym, you've probably seen (or done) more than a few sets of these strength-training moves. These exercises are trainer and fitness-buff favorites for balancing and strengthening the body; they are also effective when it comes to shaping, toning, and whittling. Learn how to do these eight essential exercises in time to add them to your shape-up routine!
The classic bridge targets the abs and butt while opening up the chest, which can need a stretch if you spend a lot of time at a desk. Add a yoga block or small ball between your knees and work your inner thighs too.
One of the most basic of weight-room moves, the deadlift is essential for correcting body imbalances and posture, as well as lifting the butt muscles.
Use lunges to increase flexibility and balance while strengthening lower-body muscles.
The plank can do it all — besides sculpting arms, the move challenges your balance and engages the core muscles for an extremely effective (and deceptively difficult) gym basic.
Related: The Intense Push-Up Variation That'll Change the Way Your Abs Look
The push-up is an old favorite for strengthening the upper body, but improper form can do more harm than good. Be aware of these four things as you execute a push-up: body alignment, hands, abs, and breath.
Russian twists target the abs, especially obliques, and help with circulation and digestion while also giving your back and spine a little stretch.
The squat is one of the best functional fitness moves you can master. From picking up a load of laundry to stabilizing yourself when you lose your balance, you'll use the squat in many areas of your life.
The Superman targets your posterior muscles to correct body imbalances by strengthening often-neglected areas of your body.