One of the exercises that made the biggest difference on my body and overall strength is squats. When I started, I could only do a few without feeling very sore the next day--like barely able to sit down without wincing. Now I use a 10 lb weight to give me more resistance and easily do two sets of 12 reps.

​

To start out slowly, try slowly lowering yourself onto a hard chair and getting back up again. Do this 3-6 times, rest and then do another 3-6 times. If this is no challenge at all for you, forget the chair and just squat down until your thighs are parallel to the floor then slowly stand up. Keep your hands in front of you for balance and try not to let your heels come off the floor. This exercise will really work your hamstrings and increase your strength and ability to get up from a chair or exit a car.

​

Another great exercise is the crunch. Lie down on the floor with your knees bent and hands behind your head. Push your lower back against the floor as if you were trying to squash a grape and raise your head, neck and shoulders. This doesn't have to be a huge move. You should feel it in your abdominal muscles but not feel any strain in your back. There are lots of great variations to this move to work all of your abdominal muscles. Visit my site in the future for more info.