She Strengthens

Core Strength Beyond Crunches

When it comes to building strong abs, crunches are just the tip of the iceberg. While they may be a popular exercise, research suggests they may not be the most effective way to engage your core muscles. Whether you’re looking to build strength for a challenging workout or simply want to show off a toned midsection, there are more effective exercises to target your core.

Bodyweight Moves

These exercises require nothing but your body and determination. Try incorporating them into your workout routine:

1. High Knees: Run in place, drawing each knee towards your chest, and using your lower abs to power the movement.
2. Tuck Jump: Jump up, drawing your knees towards your chest, and land softly on your toes.
3. Plank Walk: Start in a high plank position and walk your hands forward, extending your body.
4. Plank Jack: Jump your feet apart and back together, keeping your hips steady and arms straight.
5. Plank Arms Walk-Out: Walk your hands forward, extending your body, and then walk them back to the starting position.
6. High-Plank Bird Dog: Raise your right hand and left foot off the ground, and then repeat on the other side.
7. Scorpion: Lie on your back, lift your feet overhead, and crunch your torso together to tap your hand to your toes.
8. Spider-Man Push-Up: Bring your right knee forward towards your right elbow, and then lower yourself into a push-up.
9. Body Saw: Slide your body forward and backward in a forearm plank position.
10. Dragon Flag: Lift your feet overhead, keeping your legs straight, and then lower them back down.

Weighted Moves

Add some weight to your workout with these exercises:

11. Single-Arm Farmer’s Walk: Hold a heavy weight and walk forward, switching arms halfway through.
12. Medicine Ball Halo: Hold a medicine ball and make a circle around your upper body.
13. Resistance Band Rotation: Use a resistance band to pull away from the anchor, and then return to the starting position.
14. Renegade Row: Lift a dumbbell in a high plank position and perform a row, keeping your arm close to your side.

Getting Started

Remember to start slow and build up your strength and endurance. Try incorporating two or three exercises into your workout routine and rest for 20 seconds between moves. Repeat the circuit for 3-4 rounds total. With these exercises, you’ll be on your way to building strong, toned abs in no time!