When it comes to putting together a fitness routine, it is important to choose exercises that will be effective for you. Below are five exercises that will prove effective in any strength training routine.

1. Squats

Squats are on exercise that should be incorporated into any fitness program. They work several muscles groups at once: your glutes, quads, hamstrings and calves. When doing squats, be sure you execute them correctly. To do this, stand with your feet hip width apart with your toes facing forward. You can also angle them slightly outward but be sure not to; point them too much in another direction. Bend your knees and slowly lower your hips toward the floor. Be sure to keep your torso straight and abs pulled in at all times. Your knees should remain behind your toes and that everything points in the same direction.

Never go more than 90 degrees if you’ve been instructed by a professional to avoid “full” squats. This exercise should be done two to three days a week with 12 to 16 repetitions.

2. Push-ups

Pushups are another essential exercise. Lie on your stomach with your hands placed beside your shoulders respectively. Your elbows should be pointing up. Push your torso off the ground using your arms. Stop when your arms are straight. Be sure to keep your torso and legs straight as well. Lower your torso back to the ground. Only let your chin touch the ground before pushing up again. Do this exercise three or more days a week with anywhere between ten to 20 repetitions.

3. Lunges

Lunges are another great exercise that should be a part of your fitness routine. To do them, stand in a position with one foot in front of the other. Bend the front knee keeping the back one straight. You will need to take a step to do this. Switch legs, lunging the other while taking another step. You can walk the length of a hall way or even your entire house once you have done this exercise for a while.

4. Plank

Another exercise to incorporate into your fitness program is the plank. This is an isolation move that works the abs, back, arms and legs. Lie face down on the floor with your elbows resting on the floor next to your chest. Push your body off the floor in a push up position while resting your body on your elbows or hands. Contract your abs while keeping your body in a straight line from your head to your toes. Hold for anywhere between 30 seconds to one minute and repeat several times.

5. Lat Pull-down

The final exercise talked about in this article is the lat pull down. This works on the major back muscles. This helps you burn calories while strengthening your back. This requires a lat pull down machine. Sit on the machine while holding the bar palms out. Make sure your arms are placed in a position wider than your shoulders. Pull your abs in while leaning back slightly. Bending your elbows, pull the bar down toward your chin. This will contract the muscles in your back. Do it two to three times a week. Be sure to use enough weight to complete 12 to 16 reps.