Exercise #1: Let's get started in a plank. A standard plank works more than just your arms, but it's key to activating everything from your forearms to your deltoids.
For a modified plank, go onto your forearms. You'll still feel the exercise along your arms. It might be worth using a yoga mat for this one.
If you want to take your plank to the next level, lift up one leg for a few seconds. Then do the other one.
My wrists always feel the pressure from planks (which, Moffat said, is the correct response). To counteract the pressure, it's important to spread out your fingers as wide as possible to more evenly distribute your weight.
Exercise #2: Side planks. In addition to feeling this along your obliques, both arms should be feeling activated.
Modification: To tone down the workout, place your forearm and top leg on the ground, still reaching that top arm up (ideally straighter into the air).
Exercise #3: Chair push up. Grab a chair and position yourself as if you're about to sit on the edge. Instead of taking a seat, put your arms on the chair and lower yourself down below its edge.
While down, keep your elbows back and close to your sides, not spread out to the left and right. Repeat these chair push-ups, increasing the amount you do every time.
Modification #1: For a different feel, place your legs straight out in front of you, moving up and down.
Pushing up is the hardest part. Remember to keep your arms close to your sides.
Modification #2: If you really want to push your arms to the extreme, place one hand on the chair and hold the other out in front of you. Repeat with the other arm.
Exercise #4: Reverse chair push up. You can also use the chair to do modified push ups. Moffat said she prefers the modifications, as a way to get your body moving that's feasible for everyone. This can also be done standing up or against a wall.
Exercise #5: Toes on the chair. Placing your feet on the chair, lower yourself down through a push-up position. This push-up modification might be my favorite.
Be careful not to over-extend your back on this one. Once you're lowered down, push back up to straight arms.
Exercise #6: Reverse plank. Ditch the chair and go for a reverse plank on your forearms, putting your body in a full diagonal with your head back and in line with your body. This one you should really feel along your triceps.
Bonus exercise #9: Down dog. If all else fails, know that a solid "downward-facing dog" yoga pose is one of the best body strength training poses.
