You’re prepared. Made the list and even checked it twice.

Little black dress? Check.

Cute strappy heels? Check.

Undergarments designed to lift, tuck, hide and enhance?  Check, Check, Check!

Unfortunately, no magic material can enhance the look of our arms, as they are often exposed in our strappy holiday dresses.  If you don’t want to spend your evening hiding that dress behind a sweater or wrap…try these quick and easy exercises to get those arms toned up and ready for a night on the town!

Try performing this trio of arm busters in sets of 15, (3 times each, at least 3 times a week).

1. Traditional Push-Ups

The old stand-by still rules as an effective way to get those arms into shape.

Regardless of your state of fitness, push-ups can do wonders for your arms. New exercisers or those still building core strength should perform the push-up with the knees on the floor, keeping hips in line with the shoulders. Varying the position of the arms will challenge different parts of the arms (wide, standard or close).

2. Dips

Preventing the saggy underarm means working on the triceps!

An all around great arm toner, lie face down on the floor with arms extended laterally, palms facing down.

Pulse the arms up, back and forward in staggered sets. If you don’t have weights, simply holding a can of soup or a small water bottle will add leverage and make these exercises even more effective!

Repeat these simple exercises a minimum of three times each week and you will be on your way to celebrating with awesomely toned arms–this holiday season’s hottest accessory!

Good Luck!

       – Deborah Farwell (Center), Certified Group Trainer, Body Control/Jacksonville