With the addition of light resistance, you'll make this classic exercise more intense, allowing you to perform fewer reps. You'll feel the work in your buttocks and hamstrings right away, but remember to fully stretch your leg and pause for a moment at full extension.

1 Begin on your hands and knees. Place the center of a long band (or rubber tubing) around the sole of your right shoe. Anchor the ends of the resistance band under each hand.

2 Slowly straighten your left leg behind you, making sure the band stays around your foot. Pause when your left knee is straight and your left foot is about at hip level. Slowly bend your left knee, returning it next to your right knee. Keep your hips and shoulders facing the floor. Do 8 to 12 reps; repeat with your right leg.

This article originally appeared in the Los Angeles Times in the "Good Form" feature of the Health Section. "Good Form" is updated with a new Karen Voight article each Monday.