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The Art of Flattery Toning your arms is only one component of red-carpet- worthy style. Choose the most flattering sleeve using theses tips: • Avoid any style that hits at the widest part of your arm. • Choose sleeveless over cap sleeves, which can make arms appear larger. • Half, three-quarter or long sleeves flatter most shapes. • Bell-shaped sleeves give the illusion of thinner arms. • Raglan sleeves lengthen arms and fit large shoulders well. • If you're going sleeveless, draw attention away from less-than-trim upper arms by choosing a top with wide straps or a V-neck. W ith spring—and short-sleeve tees, tank tops and sleeveless dresses—on the horizon, it's time to start whipping those arms into shape. The following exercises target common trouble spots, including your chest, biceps, triceps and shoulders. Plan to perform eight to 12 repetitions of each move at least twice a week. exercise 1: plank push-ups TARGETS THE CHEST AND TRICEPS Start in plank position—according to the American Council on Exercise, your hands should be shoulder-width apart and flat on the floor, while your spine, head and hips should be level with the floor. Lower your arms until your elbows form 90-degree angles, return to plank position and repeat. For an added bonus to tone core muscles, hold plank position for one minute before beginning the push-ups. exercise 2: biceps curl TARGETS THE BICEPS For this exercise, you'll need two dumbbells—5-pound weights are a great starting choice. Holding one dumbbell in each hand, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Turn your palms forward and bend your elbows, curling the weights toward your upper arms. Straighten your arms and repeat. exercise 3: shoulder press TARGETS THE SHOULDERS Stand with one 5-pound dumbbell in each hand. Your feet should be hip-width apart, with your elbows bent, palms turned in and weights positioned in front of your shoulders. Alternate lifting your left and right arms toward the ceiling. TONING SAFELY You may have heard using lighter weights for more reps will build muscle, not bulk. Not true! Choose the heaviest weight you can lift and still perform the exercises correctly to achieve muscle fatigue by the end of each set. Consider working with a trainer to ensure you're using proper form, and allow your muscles to rest 48 hours between exercise sessions. 3 AWESOME ARMS Warmer weather is quickly approaching. Are your arms ready for the big reveal? EASY EXERCISES FOR health + beauty \\ 3