As a runner, I didn’t think it was pertinent to work on my booty;  didn’t hitting the pavement almost daily do that work for me? It turns out that no, running alone is not enough. Strengthening your backside not only  lifts your booty, making it look and feel awesome, it also helps to prevent injuries down the line! Strong glutes aid in much of the mobility of the lower half of your body, from your hips to your ankles. When the glutes are under active, even if you are a strong and capable athlete, you may experience knee pain and decreased ankle mobility, that is, you will be more susceptible to sprains and other ankle injuries, even plantar fasciitis!

Working at a gym, with the trainer, as well as studying for my Personal Training Certification, has taught me a lot about glute activation! Since moving, and therefore having to leave my gym job, I am at the gym to workout much, much less. I have weights at home to do weighted squats and walking lunges; I notice I need more motivation to get on track in my living room versus the gym. Cue Tone It Up on YouTube! I usually only do their arm workouts, but I’m ready to expand my horizons! Here are a couple workout videos I’ve been doing this week:

I decided to do both of these videos, the Lift and Tone Booty (top video) on day one, and Love your Booty on day two. Both days I also ran four miles and day two I incorporated Yoga With Adriene’s Strength and Focus video. Yesterday, or day three, I ran a very clunky four miles, I WAS SO SORE! Today I could barely walk, but for the sake of keeping a miniscule  run streak alive, I jogged one mile around my apartment complex. 

The Tone It Up workouts are a great addition to any routine, as they are swift and get right in there! WHOOOOWEEEEE. 

What are your fave ways to firm and strengthen the glutes?