Move of the Week: Side Leg Lifts

While tanned legs may be at the top of every girl's summer to-do list, toned legs are just as important for rocking cut-off shorts. Getting sexy looking stems is just as easy as getting a fake glow (easier if you add streaky tan lines into the equation), because there's no equipment necessary!

"Side leg lifts can be done anywhere, which makes them the perfect exercise to squeeze in before bed or while you are waiting for the laundry to dry," says Kate Brown, ISSA CFT for DailyBurn.com.

Side leg lifts are also perfect for the often over looked muscles in legs, which rest on the outside of legs and hips. In addition, this go-to move also targets multiple body parts, "The side leg lift specifically targets the outer thighs, glutes, lower abs, and obliques," says Brown. "This supplemental leg exercise, when practiced regularly in conjunction with a healthy diet, will tone your hips and increase hip flexibility."

Proper Form

Starting Position

•With a mat on the floor, lie on the ground on one side with legs straightly aligned.

•Maintain posture by propping your head up with your elbow on the ground.

Upward Movement

•Contract your hip muscles to open your hips and raise your top leg.

•Keep leg straight and lift to a 45-degree angle from the ground.

•Pause for one second.

Downward Movement

•Slowly return your leg to the starting position, making sure to maintain alignment.

Aim for 15 – 20 reps on one side, then face the opposite way and complete another 15-20 reps on the other side. Complete 3 sets twice a week as part of a regular leg routine, plus two times per week when you have a 5 minute break (for example, when watching TV).

See more of Kate Brown’s fitness tips at DailyBurn Life.