Large, pumped up muscles similar to those found on the models of body building adverts are often what people think of when reading about strength training. Of course, building muscles is part of any workout but body building that result in exhibition muscles typically requires long, strenuous workouts. It is not uncommon that, you would need to undertake strenuous body building exercises for 30 minutes, 3 times every week

It is not compulsory to build massive muscles, there are benefits to be gained from exercising that anyone who doesn't wantneed to 'bulk up' can appreciate. Increased muscle strength can minimise your risk of damage to your back and other parts of your body. Since your metabolism is raised when you strength train, it can also help in reducing your weight.

It is not even necessary to go to a gym to work out, just clear a small area wherever you are and you can workout in your surroundings. Here are few Anytime and Anywhere Exercises:

a) Crunch Lie down on the floor on your back with your feet up on the couch or something that will raise them up. Place a cushion under your neck to support it. Place your buttocks as near as possible to your feet. Lock your elbows. Now slowly lift your head off the ground just a few inches. Hold on to the position for 2 seconds and then slowly lower down. Repeat this exercise 20 times to make one set. This exercise is excellent for developing your abs and you will be able to feel it working very soon.

b) Lifting your Toes and then Lowering them Stand on a floor flatfooted with your toes pointing straight ahead. Hold onto something to help keep your balance. Now VERY SLOWLY, lift up your toes as high as possible. Hold on for 2 seconds and then lower down very gently and slowly. Repeat this 20 times to make one set.

c) Push ups Lie down on the floor facing towards the floor supporting your body weight on the palms of your hands. Now slowly, push your body up keeping your back straight and facing right ahead. Hold for 2 seconds and then slowly bring your body back to the floor. Repeat this 5-10 times to start with and then try to build this exercise up to 20 times per set.

d) Wall Squat Stand upright with your back against the wall. Now, gently move your body down to the sitting position. It is important that your back is still against the wall. Hold on to this position for 15 seconds and then gently slide up, still keeping your back against the wall. Repeat this 5-10 times to start with and then try to build this up to 20 times per set.

If you are interested in an increased moderate workout, it is easy to add ankle or wrist weights to your current low-impact workout. Adding a few extra pounds forces your heart and muscles to work harder. Slipping on a weight vest is another option if you are interested in developing extra definition in your upper body. The key to success with these items of body building equipment is to make sure you don't put too much stress on your muscles, which can lead to serious damage.

Alternative exercise equipment that you may be interested in, may include a treadmill. This will allow you train for 24/7 and 12 months a year no matter what the weather is like. Make sure that you learn more about treadmills and how to make optimum use of one before buying one.