Workout Wednesday: Taking control of the torso

Everyone has holiday shopping to do, but it's important to make time for exercise, too.

Twist and Reach

To hold a resistance for this waist-toning move, sit with your legs a little more than hip-distance apart. Hold the band and raise your arms overhead. Breathe out as you turn to one side, using the muscles in your waist. Breathe in as you extend the arms out and back, keeping the hips in place. Return to starting position. Do as many sets on each side as you can.

Lower Back: Shoulder Bridge, Part 1

As you strengthen your abs, it's so important to tone the back of the body as well. Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet hip-width apart. Keep your arms at your sides and raise your hips without arching your back. Tighten the muscles of your buttocks and hamstrings, and hold. Lower down one vertebra at a time to the floor.

Lower Back: Shoulder Bridge, Part 2

Keeping your hips raised, extend one leg straight up and point the foot flexing the foot. Keep your torso strong and your other foot firmly on the mat. Always take it at your level of fitness.