We focus on building strong core muscles at Habitat Health and Fitness in Lakeland, FL. We use ab workouts as one way of doing it. What are your core muscles and why are they important? They affect the health and fitness of your entire body. You maintain your balance by using your core muscles. Strong core muscles can also prevent back pain and improve posture. Improved posture leads to better digestion, fewer headaches, and the reduction of many other health issues. Core muscles include the pelvis, hips, lower back, and abs.
You can use equipment, like stability balls, or do bodyweight exercises.
The simplest way to do ab exercises is using bodyweight workouts. One toning and tightening exercise for the abs is the plank. Start by laying face down on a mat with your elbows bent and directly under your shoulders and your forearms pm the floor. Push your body up until your weight is on your forearms and toes. Your body should form a straight line. Hold that position as long as you can.
This core workout builds your core and eases back pain.
The bridge works your core muscles and your glutes. Do this core exercise if you want a flat belly and tight bottom. Lay on your back with your knees bent and the soles of your feet on the floor. Raise your hips off the floor until your body is in a straight line, angling down from your knees to your head. Slowly lower your body back down.
A hollow body hold can tone your entire core and build strong abs.
Lay on the floor with your legs extended and arms at your sides. Push your lower back into the floor as you squeeze your inner thighs to raise your legs two inches above the floor. Raise your head off the floor an inch or two as you extend your hands above and behind it. Hold both your hands and feet in the air for as long as possible. Start with a goal of 30 seconds and add to it. Lower your legs and shoulders back down into the starting position. You can modify this exercise by changing your arm position, bending your knees, or adding weight.
- Ride a bicycle or do bicycles. Riding a bike requires using muscles for balance. The pumping motion works the core muscles. You can also do the bicycle callisthenic which provides similar benefits.
- Burpees combine several moves that can work your abs and provide an aerobic workout. In a standing position, bend at the waist and knees to put your hands on the ground. Jump your feet backward to a plank. Then jump forward and straight up back to the starting position.
- Do walking lunges with a modification. Raise your hands above your head to add difficulty and alter your balance. Trying to keep the body balanced works the core muscles. You can also twist your upper body as you walk to make it even harder.
- Our semi-private training provides a program that provides the exercise you need to keep your body fit, including effective ab workouts.
For more information, contact us today at Habitat Health & Fitness