Your core is the powerhouse of your entire body. It’s responsible for movement, stability, and balance. But achieving a strong and toned core requires more than just crunches.
Incorporating these four exercises into your routine will transform your core and improve your overall fitness.
1. Plank
The plank is one of the best exercises for core strength. To perform a plank:.
- Start in a push-up position with your arms straight and your hands shoulder-width apart.
- Lower your forearms to the ground and make sure your elbows are directly below your shoulders.
- Maintain a straight line from your head to your heels and engage your core muscles to hold the position.
Hold the plank for as long as you can, aiming for 30 seconds to a minute. Repeat for three sets.
2. Russian Twists
Russian twists target your obliques and improve rotational core strength. Here’s how to perform them:.
- Sit on the ground with your knees bent, your feet flat, and your hands clasped in front of your chest.
- Lean back slightly and lift your feet off the ground, balancing on your sit bones.
- Twist your torso to the right, bringing your clasped hands to the right side of your body.
- Return to the starting position and repeat on the left side.
- Continue alternating sides for 10-20 reps on each side for three sets.
3. Mountain Climbers
Mountain climbers work your entire core, as well as your shoulders, chest, and legs. Here’s how to do them:.
- Start in a push-up position with your arms straight and your hands shoulder-width apart.
- Engage your core and bring your right knee towards your chest, keeping your foot off the ground.
- Quickly switch legs, bringing your left knee towards your chest and your right leg back.
- Continue alternating legs as quickly as possible for 30-60 seconds.
- Repeat for three sets.
4. Bicycle Crunches
Bicycle crunches not only work your core, but they also engage your hip flexors and target your obliques. To perform bicycle crunches:.
- Lie on your back with your knees bent and your hands behind your head.
- Lift your head, neck, and shoulders off the ground and bring your right elbow towards your left knee.
- Extend your right leg straight out and bring your left knee towards your chest.
- Switch sides, bringing your left elbow towards your right knee and extending your left leg out.
- Continue alternating sides for 10-20 reps on each side for three sets.
Incorporating these four moves into your routine will transform your core and improve your overall fitness. Remember to always maintain proper form and engage your core muscles throughout the exercises.