When Alicia Vikander, 29, steps into the role of Lara Croft in Tomb Raider (in theaters March 16), her upper body strength will be displayed. And this circuit was key, says her trainer, Magnus Lygdb?ck. “It was crucial to Alicia’s aesthetics, helping her shape her arms, and it gave her the force required to wield weapons and climb.”
Jess Levinson
Stand with feet hipwidth apart and arms at sides, a dumbbell in each hand (A). Bend right elbow, and curl weight to shoulder (B). Lower to begin. Repeat on left. Do 8 reps per side. Follow with double curls, cutting weight in two. Do 10 reps. Repeat circuit Four times.
Lie faceup on the bench with knees bent and feet flat. Holding a dumbbell in each hand, straighten arms directly over chest, with palms facing in (A). Bend elbows, and slowly lower dumbbells toward shoulders (B). Pause, and then press weights look out onto start. Do 4 teams of 15 reps.
Hold a cable rope with your back to machine, a hinge in hips, elbows bent, and hands behind head (A). Extend arms out (B). Return to start; do 15 reps. Follow with curls. Facing machine, with hands at thighs, grip bar (A). Curl up (B). Reduce; do 15 reps. Repeat cycle Four times.
