If you’re moving, you’re using your core muscles. Even sitting in a chair involves them. These are the muscles that start right below the pectorals and end right below the abs. They are muscles both in the front and back of your body. You need strong core muscles for other muscles to function properly. You even need them to walk. Strong core muscles will help you look thinner, aid in your workout and allow you to do every task more easily. That’s why it’s important to do exercises for a strong core.
A plank is not only good for core muscles, it’s good for shoulders and glutes.
Include plank exercises in your core workout. Start with your body outstretched, face down and your toes and forearms on the floor. Your elbows should be directly under your shoulders. If you choose to do a straight arm plank, your palms should be directly beneath your shoulders. Hold the body straight with no bending or sagging and shoulders down. Hold for ten seconds and build until you hit a minute.
V-sit-ups will tax your tummy.
Sit-ups are hard, but V-setups are even harder. Start by sitting on the floor with knees bent, feet on the floor and hands resting beside you. Hold your abs tight as you slowly lift your legs up and extend them at a 45 degree angle to your body. Reach your arms forward, until they’re slightly beside your shins and hold, continuing to breathe deeply as you do. Hold the V-position as long as you can. In the beginning, it may only be a few seconds. Return to starting position.
Not only will a back bridge build your core muscles, they’ll give you a great butt.
A bridge is simple, yet great for core muscles and good for people with back aches. Lay on your back on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor directly beneath the knees. Tighten your abs and buttocks, then raise your hips to create a straight line that extends from the shoulders up to the knees. As you squeeze your core muscles, try to suck in your belly so hard that you feel like your belly button is touching your spine. Hold, then slowly lower yourself back to starting position.
- If you’ve been doing lunges for your lower body, just add a twist for the core. Just step out and do a lunge, then with your hands in front of you twist to the right. Step up and lunge again, then twist left.
- Traditional push-ups can tighten your core. Focus on ensuring your body doesn’t sag. If you aren’t able to do a push-up, do a modified one on bent knee.
- You’ll find videos of how to do many core strengthening exercises. Remember, if it’s good for the abs, it’s strengthening your core. The Superman, oblique twist and side planks are just a few.
- Some benefits of building your core muscles not only include making you look slimmer by improving your posture, but also improving your balance and making you more graceful.
For more information, contact us today at Reggie C Fitness