When you’re a busy mom who works full-time, it can be hard to squeeze a workout in somewhere in your overflowing calendar. Still, it’s no excuse not to prioritize your wellbeing. Strength-training is an excellent stress reliever, and contrary to popular belief you don’t need to leave your house to do it. If you’re been looking for some workout motivation, here you have it.
Specifically, a strong core can make everyday activities like lifting your kids out of their car seat, cooking, or even pushing a grocery cart easier. Whether you’re new to strength training or have been doing it for years, here’s some inspiration for effective at-home core exercise that’ll hit your core in minutes!
1. Plank
This beginner-friendly exercise targets more than just your core. You’ll feel the burn in your glutes, arms, legs, and back.
Step One: Get down on your hands and knees on a comfortable surface.
Step Two: Extend your legs behind you, and make sure to keep your hands below your shoulders.
Step Three: Hold for 10-30 seconds.
2. Jackknife
This exercise is a complete core workout that hits the entire core. If you want to strengthen your upper and lower abs simultaneously, this move is for you.
Step One: Lie on your back with your legs extended, and your arms stretch over your head close to your ears. Press your back onto the mat and engage your abs.
Step Two: Point your toes and squeeze! Squeeze your thighs and glutes while you lift your legs and back from the ground. Reach your arms forward to meet your feet to create a V shape with your body.
Step Three: While keeping your core engaged, slowly lower back down to the mat. Repeat.
3. Leg Raise
Do your hips need some TLC? This move strengthens your hip flexors and lower core which increases your overall core stability.
Step One: Lie on your back with your legs extended and your arms tucked at your side. Make sure to keep your back on the floor. Slowly raise your legs while keeping them together as much as possible.
Step Two: Lower your legs back down and hover them above the ground. Repeat.
Working out can feel like a chore sometimes. I won’t argue with you there. However, these 3 easy core exercise makes for a go-to core routine that you can adjust to fit into any busy schedule!
This workout was created and approved by Ngina Clayton, a Certified Personal Trainer in Detroit.
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