You want your legs to look great from all angles? Why aren't you doing a lunge that works your thighs all the way around?

The skater lunge, demonstrated here by celebrity trainer Harley Pasternak and featured on his "Harley Pasternak's Hollywood Workout" video game, hits all the major muscle groups in your upper legs, without putting as much strain on your knees.

What it does

This challenging exercise works your glutes, quadriceps and a bit of your adductor muscles and hamstrings, for 360-degree sculpting. It's a great way to prepare for all kinds of winter sports. And who doesn't want the legs of a winter Olympian?


What to do

From a standing position with feet shoulder-width apart, slowly step your left leg back diagonally behind your right leg. Lower into a lunge until your knee almost touches the floor. Return to standing and reverse the movement, stepping the right leg behind your left and lowering into the lunge.

To make it more challenging, hold a pair of hand weights or a medicine ball while you do the exercise.

How much

Do 15 to 20 repetitions, working up to three sets.