Core stability is the holy grail in the quest for a strong, balanced body. And while there are loads of great exercises that work I’m particularly partial to using a simple stability ball to give those core muscles a safe and effective challenge. So if you’re game, grab a stability ball and start with a basic plank. And if you want to amp it up, add a saw and circle motion to add extra challenge.
Read MoreThe wood chop exercise is a full-body move that strengthens your core — including your obliques — as well as your arms and legs. This exercise also boosts sports performance, especially in golf, baseball and tennis, as it improves rotational power. So I was stoked to collaborate with LiveStrong.com to discuss the benefits of several different variations of this move to create helpful demo videos. Read on to start chopping your way to a stronger core!
Read MoreIf you're looking for a way to progress your bodyweight dead bugs and target your upper core a little more, give these banded dead bugs a try! You can also turn them into a marching drill or leg drops. So many options!
Read MoreSit ups have had their fair share of ups and downs (no pun intended) in the fitness world. They’ve gone from being the “go to” ab exercise among gym goers and group fitness classes to being ostracized in favor of core stability moves like planks and paloff presses. So… should we or shouldn’t we be doing sit ups? Checkout my latest collaboration with LiveStrong.com where we do a deep dive into the do’s and don’ts for integrating sit ups into your core strengthening program including several videos of my favorite sit up variations.
Read MoreLet’s get our crab on! Crab touches are an awesome functional movement that improves mobility and core strength and can help alleviate a tight back, hips and shoulders. No wonder they are a favorite in my classes and amongst my personal training clients. Plus, they are kinda fun!
Read MoreNot all ab exercises are created equal. Three, called the McGill Big 3, set the foundation for not only a toned midsection but also a strong core that protects and prevents your back from injury. Spoiler alert: No traditional crunches in this program! Become a pro at these powerhouse core moves by watching my video series for LiveStrong.com.
Read MoreCrunches and planks can get boring, and if you want to build well-rounded core strength, considering mixing up your routine with heel touches, which specifically target your obliques, aka your side ab muscles. Get the full scoop in this collaboration I did with LiveStrong including detailed videos of various progressions.
Read MoreIf the bulk of your core strengthening work consists of sit ups, crunches and other core flexing moves, consider doing more core stability or anti-rotation exercises like planks or this move called a Pallof Press. The trick is to pick a resistance that challenges you while still allowing you to move with symmetry and good posture (hips level, shoulders down, pelvis tucked). Start light with 2-3 sets of 12 reps each side and build. You will feel this all over especially in your core and glutes. These are particularly good if you have lower back issues and likely a safer choice than sit ups.
Read MoreI am a big fan of exercises that do multiple things at once. And I don't know anyone who doesn't want a stronger core and a more mobile psoas. Pso-what? PSOAS. It's a super awesome and complicated muscle that attaches your leg to your spine so you can flex your hip and flex and twist your trunk (among other things).
Read MoreI want to share this yummy lower back release/core engagement drill that I've been doing for a few minutes each day with awesome results. This is a great one if you feel achy and stiff in your lower back from too much sitting. You'll need a yoga block for this one (you can get these 2 for $10 on most online retailers). You can use a soft foam roller too in a pinch.
Read MoreROAR. This "beast" hold is one of my favorite exercises for building strength and stability in the core and shoulders.
Read MoreIt was super fun sharing my favorite core strengthening moves with the team at NewsUpNOW. These core stability exercises are easy to do at home or in the gym and will help you get a strong mid section without hurting your lower back!
Read More“Offset training” when you perform a complex exercise carrying weight on just one side of your body can be a great way to challenge your core, build stability and improve athleticism. Bracing your core, locking in your shoulders and maintain tension are key for successfully performing any offset exercise. In this post I share three videos of my favorite offset exercises which, depending on your goals and baseline fitness, are perfect as a primary exercise, warm up or finisher.
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