Core Blast: Give This Core Workout a Try
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear “core training”? Planks, sit-ups, washboard abs...swimsuit season. Yes, core training does help you look leaner and achieve a flat stomach for a rockin midsection. But there is more to the core than the abdominals and a flat belly.Your core is your body’s powerhouse. Not only does it facilitate movement, it helps with things like balance. When I focus on activating my core during my workouts (combined with a regular yoga practice), everything gets easier. We use our core muscles to stand, squat, sit, twist, run, and do just about everything. Long-term, working on our midsections will ensure our movements are strong and pain-free.Activating your core doesn’t take a lot of time or equipment. I developed this 10-minute workout with inspiration from yoga (chaturanga) and Barry’s Bootcamp (one day is devoted just to core work!). So, grab a pair of gliders, a towel, or a couple paper plates and let’s get ready to work.
Breaks: Take a 10-15 second break between sets. Enough time to catch your breath and grab some water if needed.This workouts targets your core (a group of muscles—not just one!), but your shoulders and upper body will also feel the burn since you’ll be holding a plank position almost the entire time.Watch a full video demonstration of the entire circuit HERE!
1) Mountain Climbers
20 total, 10 on each leg (3 rounds)
10 second break between each round
2) Pikes
10 total (3 rounds)
10 second break between each round*Option to drop down to your elbows (as shown in video)
3) Plank JackStay strong in plank position w/ feet on plates/towels. Open and close both feet at the same time while holding strong in your plank position. For added challenge include a push-up on each rep.
20 total (3 rounds)
10 second break between
4) Knees to ChestStay strong in your plank, bring your knees to your chest. Similar to pike but bringing your knees to chest this round.
10 total (3 rounds)
10 second break between*Option to add push-up for added challenge (as shown in video).
5) Plank Hip Dips (No gliders)To target obliques.
20 total (3 rounds)
10 second break between