Sit-ups are probably the most famous core exercise in the world, but there are plenty of other ways to work your mid-body muscles. If you're looking for alternatives, try this comprehensive core workout from fitness trainer James Stirling (AKA the London Fitness Guy).
It includes six equipment-free moves: bird dogs, hollow rocks, shoulder taps, hip dips, reverse crunches and single-leg jacks. These moves can be added into your usual workout or combined into a circuit for a standalone core session.
Watch Stirling’s video below to learn the perfect form for each exercise and find out how long you need to do each one for.
How to do the London Fitness Guy's core workout
When people think about working the core, their first thought is often of the “six pack muscles” or rectus abdominis. However, there’s more to it than that. The rectus abdominis is part of a wider group of mid-body muscles called the core, which are key to most movements we do.
They link the upper and lower body, transferring power between the two; to visualize this, think about a boxer throwing a punch, generating power first in their lower body then transferring this through the core, shoulders and arms at lightning speed.
The core is also vital for maintaining your posture, boosting your balance, stabilizing the body and supporting the spine.
As a result, core strengthening exercises can improve your performance in sport, exercise and everyday life.
A cushioned, grippy mat can make your home workouts more comfortable and enjoyable. Read our guide to the best yoga mats to find one that could elevate your training.
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