Last night, the leading ladies in film stunned us with their floor-length couture gowns [1], glittering accessories and jewelry, perfectly coiffed hair — and sculpted backs. It's pretty safe to say that backs are the new butts [2], and both fashion and Hollywood are making that clearer than ever.
Ready to rock your own backless look? Strengthen and tone your shoulders and back with this simple move.
Plank With Row
- Start in a plank position with your legs wider than hip-width distance; the wider stance makes you more stable. Hold onto your dumbbells, keeping your wrist locked to protect the joint.
- With your core tight and your glutes engaged, exhale, stabilizing your torso as you lift your right elbow to row; feel your right scapula sliding toward your spine as you bend your elbow up toward the ceiling.
- Keeping your neck long and energized, return the weight to the ground and repeat the movement on your left side.
- Do 10 reps per arm, and repeat for three sets.
Try this exercise first without dumbbells, and focus on your torso staying level as you alternate your arms in the reverse row. Then choose the appropriate weight for your strength level, between five and 10 pounds.