Workouts For Core Muscles

When it comes to working out, one of those places that people often like to target is the core. And when we say that they “like” to target the core, we mean that they like the results. Generally core workouts can be some of the most grueling, most demanding possible. For that reason, many people actively seek to avoid workouts that focus on the core—especially when they conceptualize those workouts as a varying set of crunches. However, core workouts can be immensely rewarding, especially as you build strength and endurance at the central point of your body.

The core is important because, in many ways, it’s the pillar that supports the rest of your body. Your core, loosely defined, encompasses everything except your head, arms, and legs. It’s a complex set of muscles that, in one way or another, enact influence on the rest of your body. That’s why core strength is so important: it can literally impact every movement you make for the rest of your life. A strong core is something that can help keep you active and mobile well into your years. And, let’s not forget the reason many people want a fit core: it’s attractiveness.

What’s the Best Way to Work Out Your Core?

There are numerous ways to work on your core, and the way that works best for you will depend on your desired results and your current fitness level. If possible, it’s a good idea to consult with a personal trainer or with someone who can safely push you in the right direction, but at a pace that is still healthy and sustainable. However, if you do not have access to a personal trainer, consider some of the following workouts.

• Climbing Rope: You may feel silly doing it, but sitting with your legs extended and making your arms do a “climbing rope” motion is one great way to feel the burn in your core. Remember to keep your toes pointed out and not to lean your back against anything.




• Jackknife Sit-up: We’ll try to keep as few sit-up variations on this list as possible, but this one is pretty demanding. It’s like a sit up, only you keep your legs straight, and as you “crunch,” you bring your legs up. So you move yourself into a kind of v-formation and repeat. Your abs will be burning in no time.
• The Plank: This is an oldie but a goodie. Get yourself ready for a pushup, but support yourself with your forearms, underneath your chest. Then hold that position. Maybe switch between supporting yourself with one foot or both feet. The longer you hold that position, the more you’ll strengthen your core. It’ll burn, too.
• Knee Fold Tuck: To do this exercise, you’ll need to sit on the floor with a small medicine ball between your knees. Keep your knees at an angle (your feet flat on the floor) and then pull your knees towards you and reach out with your hands. You should definitely feel a burn!

Keep Your Core in Mind



It’s very easy to focus on your arms and legs when exercising. Most machines, after all, are designed to work out those areas specifically. But it’s important not to ignore your core. After all, your core is the center of your body, it’s what keeps you standing tall and strong. So it’s a great way to make sure you’ll be up and mobile for a long time yet to come. A strong core can also make it easier to work out your arms and legs later in your workout routine.

Hiring a personal trainer is one way to make sure you always hit the core. But if you can’t hire a personal trainer (or if you don’t want one), information is another thing to make sure you have. To learn more about exercises such as these, be sure to check out our selection of body contouring articles.