The Square Life

As a kid, would you have thought that the playground is a place to build muscle? Well while there’s talk of canceling recess and P.E. for kids
nationwide and related worries about obesity rates, you can hold onto fitness and your playground memories with these moves:

THE CORE SWING
Works the core: abs and back; arms Start out swinging like usual. Pump in an extend-and-contract motion. While moving backward, lean back to a 45-degree angle while extending your legs. Pull your knees in and your back forward as you swing forward, using your arms to aid resistance. This mimics an abdominal crunch. Do 2 sets of 5 minutes

THE JUNGLE GYM CLIMB
Works total body: arms, shoulders, back and legs Climb up and down a round jungle gym using both arms and legs. Do 3 sets of up and down climbs x5

THE FIREMAN’S SHIMMY
Works back and arms Pretend like you are doing a rope climb. Pull and lift with your arms, follow and push with your legs. Don’t cheat by pushing your feet on the sides. Tag the top and enjoy a slide down the poll.
Beginner: 1x, intermediate: 2x, expert: 3x or more

MONKEY BAR BOOT CAMP
Works upper body: arms, shoulders and back Cross the bars, hand-over-hand, in a steady, swinging motion. Do 3 sets of 2 down-and-back repetitions. Add ankle weights for increased resistance.