How to Look Like a World Cup Player Without Really Playing

The  L. A. Times's Janet Cromley takes note of the remarkable physiques of World Cup soccer players and wonders if there is some way, any way, for the rest of us to look like that. The best answer, predictably, is to play soccer several hours a day, preferably with other World Cup players.  For those who lack that opportunity, Cromley's chosen experts suggest that for a quickie soccer body, think legs, abs, back and arms.
• For glutes, quads and calves — try squats with barbells on the shoulder. Set the weight so you can do 15 to 20 repetitions. You may wish to supplement that with lunges while holding dumbbells.
• For abs — try the "front plank." This exercise is performed lying on the stomach, with arms bent at the elbow. Raise up onto the elbows, keeping elbows shoulder width, and straighten the body, toes pointed downward, to look like what the exercise is called, a plank.
• For the back — do the "bird dog." Start on all fours, extend the right hand straight in front, extend the left leg straight behind, then bring both down to the original position. Repeat 15 to 20 times, then switch to the other side.
•  For arms — try machine chest presses or bench presses with dumbbells. The key is to get toned without bulking up, a hallmark of elite soccer players.

But sadly, Cromley concludes, capturing the soccer player's broad appeal may take more than a proportioned body and toned physique. Some say part of it boils down to something simpler: skimpy uniforms and good hair.
Read more from Cromley in the L.A. Times.