Tighten Up Your Tush With 3 Exercise-Ball Moves

For really targeting your tush, an exercise ball can be a big help. If you're over your standard routine of squats and lunges, you're sure to find a favorite in the following three moves.

Lying Hamstring Curl

Source: Megan Wolfe Photography at J+K Fitness Studio
If working out your backside and your hamstrings at the same time sounds up your alley, it's time to try out this easy-to-follow lying hamstring curl.

• Start by lying flat on your back with an exercise ball under your heels. Bridge your hips up with knees slightly bent, and hold that position through the entire exercise. A slight bend in the knee allows you to focus the work more in the glutes while also protecting the knee joints.
• Flex your feet, and dig your heels into the ball. Place your arms straight out to your side for support - don't use them, though; they are just for support.
• Slowly roll the ball toward your body as you curl your heels. Keep your hips in the bridge position; don't thrust them toward the ceiling as you do the move.
• Then slowly return to the start position to complete one rep.
• Do three sets of 10 to 15 reps.

Superman Booty Lifts

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For a challenging variation on the standard Superman, the power of this Superman booty lift is all worth the extra effort!

• Lie on your belly, and hold an exercise ball between your feet. Engage your abs, and extend your arms straight out in front of you.
• As you inhale, squeeze the ball and lift your knees, arms, and chest off the floor. Hold for a count of 10, and then slowly release your body back to the floor.
• Repeat for two sets of 10 lifts.

Plank Booty Leg Lifts

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Done with squats? These plank booty leg lifts are an awesome alternative for working out your tush and the back of your thighs at the same time.

• Lie on your belly on an exercise ball, and walk your hands out so the ball is underneath your shins. Your hands should be underneath your shoulders.
• Draw your navel toward your spine to engage your abs, which will help keep your spine straight and your body stabilized.
• Lift your right leg up into the air, then slowly lower it back toward the ball, but don't let it touch. This counts as one repetition. Keep your pelvis level throughout your reps.
• Complete three sets of 10 to 12 reps with the right leg, and then repeat with the left.