Add Some Fun To Your Next Core Workout!
Most people think only of crunches when they think of ab workouts. But there are loads of other ways to work your abs that will keep your workouts fresh, fun, and challenging!
Before we discuss ab exercises, let’s review where our core is on our bodies. Most think of their core just as the space between belly button and pubic bone--such a small part of the core really. Think about your core like this; if you were to wrap yourself up like a present, starting under your chest, wrap around and down until you get under your glutes and stop. That’s your entire core!
Ok, now that we’ve got that squared away, let’s talk about different exercises you can do to include all of those core muscles.
Planking is an excellent core workout. On your hands or on your elbows, on one hand/elbow for side planks are just a few ways to add variety.
Another great option is the Bird/Dog. It’s a yoga pose that focuses on a full body reach and makes the core really work hard to stabilize during each rep. A way to make this even better is to use a core mat! Putting one knee on the mat and then doing a rep of bird/dog is super challenging.
Another way to use a core mat is for balance. Every time we balance, we use our core so that we don’t fall over. Standing on one foot and holding that as long as you can (it’ll be less time than you think!) is a great way to work the core!
Coming back to the plank, put the core mat underneath your knees while you are in elbow plank position. Slowly touch both knees to the mat and then back up again to full plank. Hello, Core, how are you today?
These are just a few ways to look at your core workout in a different way.
If you don’t have a core mat, a rolled up t-shirt or sweatshirt is the perfect substitute to take your ab workout up a notch! Looking for core-specific workout equipment to get those abs you’ve always dreamed of? Visit The Abs Company for the most innovative, fun, and effective core equipment in the world!
If you need motivation on your health and wellness journey, check out The Perfect Balance Tribe! It’s a private FB community where there is daily inspiration, monthly challenges, weekly FB Live talks and a video library of over 100 videos including yoga, stretch and strength! To join, go here!
About the Author:
Pam Sherman. Trainer, Instructor, Author, & Motivational Speaker. Pam is a 50-something soccer mom, life long runner and health & wellness enthusiast. Pam is thrilled to be working with the ABS Company to promote Fitness at ANY age.