How to Get Michelle Obama's Arms: The Workout Plan

Staggered Push-Ups

Push-ups are the most useful move for anyone who wants a stronger, sleeker upper body. "Every woman should learn how to do push-ups since you can do them anywhere and they use your body weight as resistance for your arm muscles," says Smith. Plus, small modifications in form (for example, hands wide apart, knees on the floor, or feet on a stool) work different parts of the arms, shoulders, and back.

Start with 5 reps and try to work your way up to 25.

Originally published on FitnessMagazine.com, March 2009.