Since these are lower-intensity exercises, doing a larger number of reps more consistently is probably where you want to live. Consistency is better than burning yourself out (the tortoise did win the race, after all).

1. Plank or push-up

Ideally, you’d choose to do full push-ups, which can help you develop killer toned arms no matter what size you are. But if you don’t like push-ups, you can opt for the slightly gentler plank.

To do a plank, you hold the high “push-up” position with your arms extended, without lowering yourself down. You can also rest on your elbows while keeping your legs engaged and toes on the floor.

While there are plenty of variations of both the push-up and the plank, don’t overthink it. Choose a version you can do consistently while using your body weight to reach your toning goals.

2. Side plank

This is one of those plank variations we mentioned above. It’s great for toning arms because it works the biceps, triceps, and shoulder muscles.

Get into the plank position, but instead of placing both palms on the floor, rotate your body to one side so your weight is supported on one arm. Keep both legs extended while using your bottom leg as an anchor.

You can rest your top leg either on top of your anchor leg or on the floor slightly behind your anchor leg. Use your arm (on the same side as your bottom leg) to lift your upper body straight up and support your body weight off the floor.

It’s totally normal for your supporting arm to start to wobble after a few seconds during your first attempts at this move. That should go away as you develop strength and tone.

For a more advanced option, you can do a rock star variation by lifting your top leg into the air.

3. Inverted table

Sit on the floor with bent knees facing the ceiling. Think of the Twister game mat with colored dots and imagine keeping your hands and feet on different dots. Lift your butt off the floor. Without it touching the mat again, move your body up and down and feel your back arm muscles (triceps) engage almost effortlessly.

If you’re a little concerned about stress to your back or joints while doing this move, try placing a foam roller under your ankles and keeping your legs straight.

4. Triceps dip

This toning exercise is similar to the inverted table, but you can adjust the height to your liking.

Grab something sturdy like a chair or an ottoman (or use a table or bed, depending on where you are).

With your support base behind you (but not under you), rest your hands on it, with palms down and fingers facing toward you. Use your triceps to raise and lower your body.

Use different base heights (steps, benches, etc.) for varying degrees of triceps toning. Your arms will be in a nice form in no time!

5. Triceps extension

You can do these either standing or seated. Holding a dumbbell or another heavy object with both hands, lift your arms above your head, bend them at the elbows to lower the weight behind your head, and then press it back up.

You can use a dumbbell, but it’s not necessary for toning. Start with water bottles, cans from the pantry, resistance bands, or other slightly heavy objects around the house that you can hold with no problem.