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Large, pumped up muscles similar to those displayed on the models of body building magazine covers are often what is associated with strength training. Naturally, building muscles is at the heart of any workout but body building that result in massive muscles typically requires long, arduous workouts. It is not uncommon that, you would undergo strenuous body building exercises for 30 minutes, at least 3 times a week

It is not necessary to build massive muscles, there are benefits to be gained from exercising that even women who don't desire to 'bulk up' can understand. Stronger muscles can lower your risk of damage to your back and other parts of your body. Since your metabolic rate is raised when you strength train, it can also help in reducing your weight.

You don't even have to go to a gym to exercise, just clear a small space wherever you are and you can exercise 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 keep them raised. 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 come down. Repeat this exercise 20 times to make one set. This exercise is great 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, raise your toes as high as you can. Hold on for 2 seconds and then come down very gently and slowly. Repeat this 20 times to make one set.

c) Push ups Lie down face down on the floor taking 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 lower your body back to the starting position. 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 loweryour body down to the sitting position. Make sure 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 more energetic workout, it is easy to add ankle or wrist weights to your usual low-impact workout. Adding a few extra pounds forces your heart and muscles to work harder. Wearing a weight vest is another option if you are interested in developing extra definition in your upper body. The secret to success with this type of body building equipment is to make sure you don't put too much stress on your muscles, which can lead to serious damage.

Other exercise equipment that you may be interested in, may include a treadmill. This will allow you work out for 24/7 and 12 months a year independent of the weather. Make sure that you find out more about treadmills and how to make optimum use of one before buying one.