These ab exercises are easy and effective ways to work your core. You can do them on their own for a quick workout routine, or add them into a longer exercise session.
From crunches to planks, core workouts are an important part of any exercise regimen. After all, having a strong core helps improve posture and reduces risk for back pain.
It can even improve endurance when running and help prevent injury when weight lifting.
You include these ab exercises as part of a Full Body Strength Workout, but if you’re short on time you can absolutely do them on their own. Just be sure to do a few warm up and cool down stretches beforehand!
The Workout
As mentioned above, you can weave these exercises into a longer, full-body routine, or use them on their own for an abs-focused workout.
Plank w/Alternate Leg LiftsÂ
Plank – Lie prone on mat. Place nands on mat, directly under shoulders. Place legs together with forefeet on floor.
Raise body upward by straightening body in straight line. Hold position. Alternate lifting legs, lifting heels upward..
Repeat for 3 sets of 20.Â
Side Plank w/Hip Lift
Side Plank – Lie on side on mat. Place forearm on mat under shoulder perpendicular to body. Place upper leg directly on top of lower leg and straighten knees and hips.
Raise body upward by straightening waist so body is ridged. Hold position. Lift hips slightly. Repeat with opposite side.
Repeat this motion for 4 sets of 10 reps.
Elbow Plank w/Hip Lift
Elbow Plank – Lie prone on mat. Place forearms on mat, elbows under shoulders. Place legs together with forefeet on floor.
Raise body upward by straightening body in straight line. Hold position. Then slightly raise hips.
Repeat for 2 sets of 15 reps.
The Bottom Line
Having a strong core is important for reducing strain on your spine and supporting proper posture when doing other activities.
Whether you do these ab exercises on their own or as part of a larger workout, just try to keep moving!
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