The Best Pinterest Workouts

Spring means summer is coming, which means vacations, which means you want to have the best body possible to show off in those swimsuits and cute dresses. 

I'll be up-front in saying that I don't always want to go to the gym to work out. The gym at my apartment complex is too small, and driving to campus for the student gym isn't always convenient. So what's a decent compromise, and where can you find it? Give your favorite social network a look: Pinterest.

I've pinned my fair share of workout routines (yes, I have a "fitness" board), and always wondered how effective any of them are. So I tested a few of my favorites and am here today to share my thoughts. 

Core: Kill That Muffin Top

I like all of these exercises, especially the plank variations. You cannot go wrong with a basic plank and any sort of add-on. You can really feel your core tightening the longer you hold it. And really, I'll do anything if it means I don't have to do crunches. View the workout on the original site here.

Arms: Back on Fire!

My arms are my weakness, but I tried this little circuit today and it wasn't bad. I would add arm circles, rows, and tricep dips to it for a more rounded routine. But this is a good starting point. This came from a site called Blogilates.

Legs: Tone Your Inner Thighs

I don't worry about my legs as much as my arms and core, but a well-rounded workout includes all areas. I tried this routine today, too, and I liked it. I'd add some lunges to this routine, but static lunges are boring. I like lunge twists with a medicine ball...works the legs and the obliques in one move. Find this circuit on Fitsugar here.

Your Body's Best: 67 Essential Equipment-Free Exercises

These are perfect for days you don't want to go to the gym. Pick any combination of these 67 moves and you will feel the burn for sure. There are definitely plenty to choose. Check it out here.

When you finish your workout(s), always remember to stretch. Pilates and yoga moves are nice to finish with, and they'll feel great.

I firmly believe that you should exercise and work out the way you want to, and it should be enjoyable. I stopped running partially because it got boring and I stopped enjoying it, and partially because I didn't want to re-injure my knee. But don't let yourself plateau...when you feel like it's getting too easy or you're breezing through your circuits, amp it up and make it harder! Also keep in mind that doing these alone will not get you where you want to be, unless you have a special body type and a super-fast metabolism. Keep to a healthy diet and some form of cardio exercise, and you will see results. And that swimsuit and/or dress will look absolutely stellar. Promise. 

And the most important piece of advice I can give is to remember that there's a difference between skinny and healthy. Be realistic in your goals and you will be fine.

Note: There are thousands of workouts like these out there. These are just the ones I've found and like the most. Feel free to browse on your own.