Sit-up haters, we have a no-sit-up workout ready and waiting for you, but if you love sit-ups, feel free to add them to the end of this five-move bodyweight routine.
The only thing we recommend getting before you jump into core training is an exercise mat (like one of the best yoga mats), this adds a little extra protection for your back and joints during a floor routine like this.
Developed by trainer Cindy Yu, this workout focuses on stimulating your core muscles to strengthen and tone your abs. It's an equipment-free workout, so you can take these moves with you to the gym, on vacation, or just enjoy them in the comfort of your own home.
Let's take a look at the exercises, learn from Yu's demonstrations, and explore some of the benefits of strength training.
Watch Yu's Five-Move Muscle Workout
You'll spend 30 to 45 seconds on each exercise, and make sure to spend that time on each side of your body for each move. The goal is to complete four to five rounds in total, but depending on how regularly you train your core, you may need to take short breaks to help you complete the entire workout with proper form.
Here are the moves you'll need for this short workout, but if you're new to any of them or need a refresher, you can check out Yu's demos on Instagram before you get started.
- Pike drive knee board
- Bending Kick
- Bear Pose, Rotation and Stretch
- Reverse Plank with Knee Raised Leg
- Leg extension with kick
There's nothing wrong with doing crunches. In fact, they're great for targeting the rectus abdominis muscle (the “six-pack”). However, we understand that they can get a little repetitive when they appear frequently in many of the best ab exercises.
The good news is that you won't lose any muscle gains by ditching abs and trying Yu's five-move routine instead. His collection of exercises targets various core muscles, including the obliques, transverse abdominis, and lower back.
The more you engage your core muscles, the stronger you become and the more you can improve things like stability and posture. And there are practical benefits to this, too, because it's no secret that a strong core is the unsung hero of good posture.
Just as a well-built building rests on a solid foundation, your core muscles are the foundation of your middle and upper body. By strengthening the muscles in your abdomen, lower back, and pelvis, you can create a sturdy structure that keeps your spine aligned and prevents you from slouching or arching.