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6 best free weight workouts to build upper-body strength
Moves to boost your strength and create a symmetrical build without hitting the gym

You may think that strength training requires heavyweights to get the result, but the reality is that you can create enough resistance to build muscles and burn fat by using your own body weight. All you need is an effective workout plan. An effective workout plan requires well-thought-out techniques and movements to ensure you get the most out of your efforts.

Benefits of Upper Body Strength Training

It improves your posture for physical activities. It reduces the risk of injuries. Building and strengthening the large muscles boost muscle tissue in the body, which helps burn more fat. You will have a healthy and fit appearance. It balances the major muscle groups. It helps prevent and relieve pain in the neck, shoulders, and upper back.

The Top Six Upper Body Strength Training Exercises

Here are the top six muscle-building upper body exercises you can do at home:

1. Tricep Dips (Triceps)

Put your hands on a bench or step behind you. Extend your legs out in front of you. You can also bring your legs close to your body to make it easier. Make sure your lower back is close to the step or bench. Then lower your body until your shoulders are past your elbows and push yourself back. Try lifting your feet to make the exercise more difficult.

2. The Dirty Dozen (Chest and Shoulders)

Do 12 push-ups, then kneel on both knees and do 12 shoulder presses. Begin with your hands by your shoulders and press them over your head. Repeat this by doing 11 push-ups and 11 shoulder presses. Continue without resting as you decrease each set by 1 to finish at 0. Lastly, do 12 push-ups and 12 shoulder presses, then rest. 

3. Diamond Push-Ups (Chest and Triceps)

Bring your hands together to form a diamond shape in a push-up position. Start your push-ups as you position your chest over the diamond shape, keeping your elbows tucked in tight. If this is too difficult for you, get down on your knees and keep going.

4. Dumbbell Biceps Curl (Back and Biceps)

Hold the dumbbells with straight arms by your sides, palms facing forward. Curl the weights up while squeezing your biceps, keeping your chest up, elbows tucked in to your sides, and core braced. Then bring them back down to the start.

5. Strength Band Shoulder Press (Shoulders)

Stand on the strength band with your feet shoulder-width apart. Pull the band up to your shoulders with your hands. Then press the band above your head. Lower it back down below your chin and repeat the process.

6. Strength Band Pull-Ups (Back and Biceps)

Twist the strength band over a bar. Pull the strength band down and loop it over your knee. Start with holding the bar wider than shoulder-width apart. Pull your chin up to the bar while squeezing your shoulder blades down and together.


Few Tips

  • Slow down the repetitions.
  • Increase the number of exercises back-to-back with a little rest.
  • Increase the number of repetitions for each exercise.

The Takeaway

Try to repeat these exercises 2-3 times a week for a period of 6-8 weeks to make it more difficult when you can easily complete the given repetitions with good technique and form. These exercises increase your flexibility, balance, speed, and strength generated by the upper body's muscles.


Contact us today! Receive a complimentary 3-day pass to our studio in Lancaster. Try our classes, boot camp or a general workout to see if it’s a good fit!

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By Ladies First Fitness April 3, 2025
If you’re like most people, then you probably don’t spend much time exercising. Whether it’s because you don’t know where to begin or that you feel uncomfortable in a gym setting, there are many people who stay away from working out. However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t start an exercise program if you want to. In fact, starting today is the best time to start. After all, it will be easier to continue a new activity once it becomes a habit. This article provides helpful tips and advice to help establish an exercise routine as a new person who wants to get started with working out. If you follow these suggestions and activities consistently over time, then your chances of forming a new habit increase significantly. Find an Activity You Like When you first decide to get active, it’s important to choose a type of exercise that you actually enjoy. This is key to starting a new habit and making consistent exercise a part of your daily routine. When you find an activity that you enjoy, it will be easier to keep up with it. By finding an activity that you are interested in, you can avoid the frustration that comes with starting a new exercise routine and get the most out of your time. One way to find an activity you like is to make a list of all of the things that you would love to do more often. Then, start with the top items on your list and find ways to make them part of your schedule. For example, you may love to go hiking or running, but you don’t have access to any of these activities in your area. Instead, you could try to find a nearby walking trail that you can walk on regularly. Another way to find an activity you like is to make a list of all of your favorite activities. Then, look at how you can incorporate these activities into your daily routine. For example, if you love to play hockey and football, try to set aside some time during the week to practice your skills. Be SMART When You Start an Exercise Program When you first decide to start an exercise program, it’s important to think about your long-term goals. This will help you determine what type of exercise program you should follow. One way to get the most out of your exercise program is to follow one that follows a specific set of guidelines. This is known as a specific mixed-duration program, which is an effective way of burning calories and building muscle. Additionally, it will help to follow an exercise program that is based around a specific type of exercise. For example, if you’re looking to quickly get into shape, then it would be wise to follow a circuit-training program that focuses on repetitive exercises. This is known as high-intensity interval training, which has been shown to help to increase muscle mass more quickly. Make a Plan When you get started with an exercise plan, it’s important to put in some thought into the plan that you choose. Depending on your situation, there are many different ways that you can structure your plan. For example, you could follow a daily schedule, follow a weekly schedule, or try a different model altogether. It’s important to find a plan that works for you and your schedule. For example, if you work full-time, then following a daily schedule may be best. However, if you’re the type of person who is more likely to get in shape if you have more hours in your day, then following a weekly schedule may be a better option. Whatever plan you choose, it’s important to make sure that you stick to it consistently. Set Goals When you set goals for yourself, it helps to keep you motivated and on track. It can be difficult to stick with a daily routine if you don’t have a goal in sight. Setting short-term goals helps to keep you focused and on track, while also offering a way to celebrate the small wins along the way. It can be helpful to set some big goals along the way. For example, if you want to get into better shape, then perhaps you want to hit a certain weight or fitness level. However, you may want to keep your goals more general in nature, such as wanting to be healthier or happier. It’s important to make sure that you set goals that help you to reach your overall goals, but also keep you grounded and realistic. Do Some Basic Stretching and Core Work When you first get started with an exercise plan, it’s important to focus on a few basic components that will help you to be more consistent. One way to ease into a new exercise program is to focus on a few basic components that can help to make the transition easier. One of these components is to do some basic stretching before you get started. When you do some stretching before you start working out, it can help to reduce your risk of injury by helping to relieve some of the soreness that you may feel in your muscles. Additionally, it also helps to reduce the risk of injury due to increased flexibility, which can help to improve your overall posture and balance. Don’t Forget to Drink Water! When you start an exercise plan, it’s important to focus on a few key components that will help you to become more consistent. One of these components is to make sure that you drink enough water. It may seem like a small component, but it can make a big impact when you’re trying to form a new habit. When you don’t drink enough water, it can increase your risk of injury as your body is working harder to maintain its normal fluid levels. Additionally, it can also lead to a decrease in athletic performance and a decrease in overall energy. By drinking enough water before and during your workout, your body will be able to exercise more efficiently and at a higher intensity. This can help to boost your overall fitness and help to improve your strength and endurance. Take a Break Between Sessions When you first get started with an exercise plan, it’s important to try to avoid taking a break in between sessions. Taking frequent breaks in between your exercise sessions can be detrimental to your attempts to form a new habit. When you take frequent breaks, it can be difficult to get back into your routine and to feel like you’re getting the most out of your time and effort. It’s important to make the effort to push yourself during your workout sessions, even when you’re not feeling particularly energetic. This can help to build a consistent feeling of pressure and commitment that can help to ensure that you continue working out on a consistent basis. Conclusion Starting a new exercise program can be difficult, especially if you don’t know where to start. However, if you follow the tips and advice provided in this article, then you can make the transition much easier. When you find an activity that you enjoy and that also fits with your schedule and lifestyle, then you will be much more likely to make it a part of your daily routine. Let’s discuss more about exercise according to your needs. Click here Contact us today! Receive a complimentary 3-day pass . Try our classes, bootcamp or a general workout to see if it’s a good fit!
By Ladies First Fitness April 3, 2025
VIP...BUT MAKE IT PLATINUM
By Ladies First Fitness April 3, 2025
Are you eager to shed those extra pounds and get in shape for summer? Losing 20 pounds in 6 weeks might seem daunting, but with the right approach and dedication, it's entirely achievable. Benefits of Joining the 6-Week Challenge at Our All-Women Gym 💪 1. Faster Results – This structured program is designed to help you build strength, burn fat, and boost endurance in just six weeks. With expert guidance, you’ll see noticeable progress quickly. 🍏 2. Personalized Support – Get expert coaching, customized workouts, and accountability check-ins to keep you on track every step of the way. 🔥 3. Motivation & Accountability – Stay committed with a supportive community of like-minded women, trainers, and workout partners who push you to do your best. 🧘‍♀️ 4. Variety of Workouts – Experience a mix of strength training, Bootcamp , cardio, and flexibility exercises to keep workouts exciting and effective. 🍎 5. Nutrition Guidance – Learn how to fuel your body the right way with expert advice, meal planning tips, and healthy eating strategies. 🚀 6. Boost Confidence & Energy – Feel stronger, more energized, and confident as you build a sustainable fitness routine. 👩‍👧 7. Full Gym Access & Amenities – Enjoy access to our sauna, steam room, workout classes, and childcare services during your challenge. 🎯 8. Achievable & Sustainable Goals – This challenge isn’t just about short-term results—it’s about building habits that last beyond six weeks. 🔥 9. Exclusive Perks & Discounts – Participants may receive special discounts on memberships, classes, or personal training after completing the challenge. ⏳ 10. Limited-Time Opportunity – With only a few spots available, this challenge is the perfect opportunity to prioritize your health and fitness NOW! Ready to transform your body and mindset? Sign up today! 🚀💖
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By Ladies First Fitness April 3, 2025
If you’re like most people, then you probably don’t spend much time exercising. Whether it’s because you don’t know where to begin or that you feel uncomfortable in a gym setting, there are many people who stay away from working out. However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t start an exercise program if you want to. In fact, starting today is the best time to start. After all, it will be easier to continue a new activity once it becomes a habit. This article provides helpful tips and advice to help establish an exercise routine as a new person who wants to get started with working out. If you follow these suggestions and activities consistently over time, then your chances of forming a new habit increase significantly. Find an Activity You Like When you first decide to get active, it’s important to choose a type of exercise that you actually enjoy. This is key to starting a new habit and making consistent exercise a part of your daily routine. When you find an activity that you enjoy, it will be easier to keep up with it. By finding an activity that you are interested in, you can avoid the frustration that comes with starting a new exercise routine and get the most out of your time. One way to find an activity you like is to make a list of all of the things that you would love to do more often. Then, start with the top items on your list and find ways to make them part of your schedule. For example, you may love to go hiking or running, but you don’t have access to any of these activities in your area. Instead, you could try to find a nearby walking trail that you can walk on regularly. Another way to find an activity you like is to make a list of all of your favorite activities. Then, look at how you can incorporate these activities into your daily routine. For example, if you love to play hockey and football, try to set aside some time during the week to practice your skills. Be SMART When You Start an Exercise Program When you first decide to start an exercise program, it’s important to think about your long-term goals. This will help you determine what type of exercise program you should follow. One way to get the most out of your exercise program is to follow one that follows a specific set of guidelines. This is known as a specific mixed-duration program, which is an effective way of burning calories and building muscle. Additionally, it will help to follow an exercise program that is based around a specific type of exercise. For example, if you’re looking to quickly get into shape, then it would be wise to follow a circuit-training program that focuses on repetitive exercises. This is known as high-intensity interval training, which has been shown to help to increase muscle mass more quickly. Make a Plan When you get started with an exercise plan, it’s important to put in some thought into the plan that you choose. Depending on your situation, there are many different ways that you can structure your plan. For example, you could follow a daily schedule, follow a weekly schedule, or try a different model altogether. It’s important to find a plan that works for you and your schedule. For example, if you work full-time, then following a daily schedule may be best. However, if you’re the type of person who is more likely to get in shape if you have more hours in your day, then following a weekly schedule may be a better option. Whatever plan you choose, it’s important to make sure that you stick to it consistently. Set Goals When you set goals for yourself, it helps to keep you motivated and on track. It can be difficult to stick with a daily routine if you don’t have a goal in sight. Setting short-term goals helps to keep you focused and on track, while also offering a way to celebrate the small wins along the way. It can be helpful to set some big goals along the way. For example, if you want to get into better shape, then perhaps you want to hit a certain weight or fitness level. However, you may want to keep your goals more general in nature, such as wanting to be healthier or happier. It’s important to make sure that you set goals that help you to reach your overall goals, but also keep you grounded and realistic. Do Some Basic Stretching and Core Work When you first get started with an exercise plan, it’s important to focus on a few basic components that will help you to be more consistent. One way to ease into a new exercise program is to focus on a few basic components that can help to make the transition easier. One of these components is to do some basic stretching before you get started. When you do some stretching before you start working out, it can help to reduce your risk of injury by helping to relieve some of the soreness that you may feel in your muscles. Additionally, it also helps to reduce the risk of injury due to increased flexibility, which can help to improve your overall posture and balance. Don’t Forget to Drink Water! When you start an exercise plan, it’s important to focus on a few key components that will help you to become more consistent. One of these components is to make sure that you drink enough water. It may seem like a small component, but it can make a big impact when you’re trying to form a new habit. When you don’t drink enough water, it can increase your risk of injury as your body is working harder to maintain its normal fluid levels. Additionally, it can also lead to a decrease in athletic performance and a decrease in overall energy. By drinking enough water before and during your workout, your body will be able to exercise more efficiently and at a higher intensity. This can help to boost your overall fitness and help to improve your strength and endurance. Take a Break Between Sessions When you first get started with an exercise plan, it’s important to try to avoid taking a break in between sessions. Taking frequent breaks in between your exercise sessions can be detrimental to your attempts to form a new habit. When you take frequent breaks, it can be difficult to get back into your routine and to feel like you’re getting the most out of your time and effort. It’s important to make the effort to push yourself during your workout sessions, even when you’re not feeling particularly energetic. This can help to build a consistent feeling of pressure and commitment that can help to ensure that you continue working out on a consistent basis. Conclusion Starting a new exercise program can be difficult, especially if you don’t know where to start. However, if you follow the tips and advice provided in this article, then you can make the transition much easier. When you find an activity that you enjoy and that also fits with your schedule and lifestyle, then you will be much more likely to make it a part of your daily routine. Let’s discuss more about exercise according to your needs. Click here Contact us today! Receive a complimentary 3-day pass . Try our classes, bootcamp or a general workout to see if it’s a good fit!
By Ladies First Fitness April 3, 2025
VIP...BUT MAKE IT PLATINUM
By Ladies First Fitness April 3, 2025
Are you eager to shed those extra pounds and get in shape for summer? Losing 20 pounds in 6 weeks might seem daunting, but with the right approach and dedication, it's entirely achievable. Benefits of Joining the 6-Week Challenge at Our All-Women Gym 💪 1. Faster Results – This structured program is designed to help you build strength, burn fat, and boost endurance in just six weeks. With expert guidance, you’ll see noticeable progress quickly. 🍏 2. Personalized Support – Get expert coaching, customized workouts, and accountability check-ins to keep you on track every step of the way. 🔥 3. Motivation & Accountability – Stay committed with a supportive community of like-minded women, trainers, and workout partners who push you to do your best. 🧘‍♀️ 4. Variety of Workouts – Experience a mix of strength training, Bootcamp , cardio, and flexibility exercises to keep workouts exciting and effective. 🍎 5. Nutrition Guidance – Learn how to fuel your body the right way with expert advice, meal planning tips, and healthy eating strategies. 🚀 6. Boost Confidence & Energy – Feel stronger, more energized, and confident as you build a sustainable fitness routine. 👩‍👧 7. Full Gym Access & Amenities – Enjoy access to our sauna, steam room, workout classes, and childcare services during your challenge. 🎯 8. Achievable & Sustainable Goals – This challenge isn’t just about short-term results—it’s about building habits that last beyond six weeks. 🔥 9. Exclusive Perks & Discounts – Participants may receive special discounts on memberships, classes, or personal training after completing the challenge. ⏳ 10. Limited-Time Opportunity – With only a few spots available, this challenge is the perfect opportunity to prioritize your health and fitness NOW! Ready to transform your body and mindset? Sign up today! 🚀💖
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