With a little resistance, a leg workout gets a lot more intense

With the addition of light resistance, you’ll make this classic exercise more intense, allowing you to perform fewer reps. You’ll feel the work in your buttocks and hamstrings right away, but remember to fully stretch your leg and pause for a moment at full extension.

-- Karen Voight

Step 1Begin on your hands and knees. Place the center of a long band (or rubber tubing) around the sole of your right shoe. Anchor the ends of the resistance band under each hand.

Step 2Slowly straighten your left leg behind you, making sure the band stays around your foot. Pause when your left knee is straight and your left foot is about at hip level. Slowly bend your left knee, returning it next to your right knee. Keep your hips and shoulders facing the floor. Do 8 to 12 reps; repeat with your right leg.

Karen Voight can be reached at [email protected].