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A strong and flexible core is key to your overall health and wellness. It influences everything from your posture to whether you experience lower back pain. By focusing on your abs during a workout routine, you will be in better shape to tackle more advanced exercises. Here are some core exercises everyone should implement in their exercise regimen.

What Core Exercises Should You Add to Your Workout Regimen?

1. Roll-ups

Trainers say that doing one roll-up is like doing six crunches in a single movement. Start by laying flat on your back with your arms raised behind your head. Keeping your legs flat on the ground, tuck your chin, and lift the upper body using your core muscles. Bring yourself to a sitting position with the arms held vertical over your head, then slowly lower yourself back to the ground.

2. Planks

workoutThe plank is an endurance exercise. Extend your legs out behind you and place your toes on the floor, as if you were doing pushups. Keep your elbows underneath the shoulders while resting your forearms on the floor. Once in this position, squeeze your core and quads to lift your chest off the ground while keeping the back straight and neck neutral. Try to hold this position for 30 seconds to a minute.

3. Butterfly Sit-Ups

Butterfly sit-ups are a good method to ensure that you practice proper form during a core workout. Fold your legs in the “butterfly” position, with the soles of the feet touching and your knees bent to opposite sides.

Lie on your back with your arms stretched behind your head. Use the core muscles to roll into an upright position and reach out to touch your toes. This style of sit-up keeps you from relying on your hip flexors to lift yourself.

 

Whether you want to lose weight or increase muscle tone, the personal trainers at Anytime Fitness in Chesterfield, MO, will help you reach your workout goals. This fitness facility is open 24/7, and membership also includes access to any of the chain’s 3,000 global locations. To learn more about memberships and programs, visit them online. Call (314) 485-8986 to discuss your workout goals with a friendly staff member.

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