Core Workout Exercises

 

sixpackabworkouts

Have you wanted to get back your six-pack, but just haven't made it happen? A strong core can determine posture and balance. The following core exercises will get you in tip top shape.

Do the good old sit up and crunch routine. These two oldies but goodies will make a difference. As you lift and lower your body (full extensions for sit ups, small lifts for crunches), use your fingertips to cradle your neck and always use slow, controlled movements to lift and lower without straining your body.

When you're sick of sit ups, move into the position to do the bicycle. Start out in the same position as a traditional sit up, but lift your legs in the air and bend them at 90-degree angles. Tense your abs, twist and engage your oblique muscles, and touch one elbow to the opposing knee. Then relax that side and lift the other elbow to the opposing knee. Keep this up, using smooth movements, mimicking riding a bike.

Tighten your abs by using your core muscles to lift and lower your legs in a controlled motion. Lie on your back with your arms and legs extended. Press your lower back into the ground, engage your core muscles, and lift your legs until your body looks like the letter L. Concentrating on your stomach muscles, slowly lower your legs until they touch the ground.

Performing the plank exercise will tighten those abs right up. Lie on your stomach, with your hands under your shoulders. Lift your body as if you are doing a push up but hold the position, tensing your stomach muscles and keeping your body stiff as a board. Remain in this position until you can't any longer; ease yourself back into the starting position and rest.

This final exercise is a something you can do even while working, just by sitting on your trusty exercise ball. The ball will require you to engage those core muscles so you can stay upright, even while you're working.