Superhero-inspired workouts to keep your body fit

There will always be something fascinating about superheroes. Maybe it's their superhuman strength, their selfless dedication to their cause, or their unmatched bravery. It could even be their colorful costumes. Whatever it is, mere mortals such as ourselves will always admire these iron-clad, leotard-wearing, caped creatures.

Since it's impossible for us to have superpowers, the closest we can do to achieve superhero-like qualities is to be physically fit just like our favorite characters. In a recent episode, GMA-7 morning show "Unang Hirit" demonstrated six exercises by FTX Gym that will not only remind you of your beloved comic book characters but will also help you develop your body. Here are some superhero-inspired workouts you can try:



Superman Flight

Be as tough as the "man of steel" by hardening and developing your lower back:

1. Lie prone with both legs and arms outstretched on a flat surface.

2. Raise both arms and legs at the same time and lower them after a short pause.


Iron Man Landing

Strike a pose reminiscent of the genius playboy superhero while strengthening your leg muscles:

1. Lunge forward with your right leg. Make sure that your left knee is touching the floor. Extend your left arm downwards so that your left fist is also touching the floor.

2. Straighten your body and jump abruptly.

3. Alternate the position of your legs and land with your left leg lunged forward and your right knee and right fist touching the floor.

4. Repeat lunging on alternate legs for 20 times.




Spiderman Climb

Toughen your lower back and knees by copying Spidey's signature wall crawl move.

1. Get into the push up position with both arms extended downwards so that both palms are touching the floor.

2. Lunge your right leg forward.

3. After a short pause, alternate the position of your legs so that your left leg is the one lunged forward.

4. Repeat lunging on alternate legs for 20 times. Keep your palms in place all throughout the exercise.

Batman Roll

Keep your body as fit as the Cape Crusader with this full-body exercise:

1. Lie on your back. Extend both legs upwards.

2. Bring both legs back on the floor.

3. Use your arms to push your upper body upwards. Bend both knees and slowly push yourself up using your legs as support.

4. Jump as soon as your whole body is upright. Extend both your arms upwards.

5. After landing on your feet, bend both your knees and lower your body to a sitting position. Use your arms to support your body.

6. Lie on your back and repeat steps 1 to 5.



Thor Hammer

God-like biceps aren't acquired out of thin air. Make your arms firm with this easy workout:

1. Stand straight with your feet apart. Squat slightly.

2. Extend your right arm downwards while holding a dumbbell.

3. Gradually raise your right arm upwards without bending it. Slowly bring your arm down and return to the previous position.

4. Repeat 10 times for each arm.


Captain America T-stand

Want to have a chest that is as broad and as strong as the first avenger without undergoing a lab experiment? Follow this workout:

1. Get into the push up position.

2. Twist the left side of your body upwards to one side so that your left arm is extended straight upwards.

3. Lower your left arm and return your body to push up position after a short pause.

4. Repeat the steps using the right side of your body.

5. Alternate sides. This activity can be done with or without weights.



Wolverine Slash

It might be impossible to have regeneration powers like our favorite mutant but it's possible to be physically fit like him through this exercise:

1. Stand straight with your feet apart and with your arms at your sides.

2. Extend both arms forward while holding weights. Make sure that you don't bend your elbows.

3. Gradually lower your arms and return them at your sides.

4. Repeat for 10 to 20 times.