(On the front leg of the lunge, stress is placed on the buttocks and quadricep. The back leg focuses on the upper quadriceps and hip flexors.)

Balance a light barbell across your shoulders behind your neck by grasping it on each side. Stand upright with your feet 8-10 inches apart, keeping your toes pointed directly forward and your hips straight. With your left foot, step forward 2-2.5 feet. Keeping your right leg straight, bend the left knee as fully as possible. In the bottom position, your right knee should be 2-4 inches above the floor and your left knee should be slightly in form of your left ankle, but not past your toes. Forcefully push through your left leg to return to the starting position with your feet on the same plane 8-10 inches apart. Repeat with your right foot.

Shaun Karp is a certified personal trainer in Vancouver. For further information call his office at 604-420-7800.