Best Core Exercises – My Top 5

Author

Kyle Weiger

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Here are my best core exercises.

Now, the real list of best core exercises is probably a mile long, and is very subjective in nature, but here are 5 classics that will never go out of style.

1. Planks: Planks are a classic core exercise that work the muscles in your abdominals, back, and shoulders. To do a plank, start in a push-up position with your arms straight and your feet hip-width apart. Hold the position for 30 seconds to one minute, making sure to keep your body in a straight line from head to toe.
2. Russian twists: Russian twists are one of the best core exercises for working the obliques (the muscles on the sides of your waist). To do a Russian twist, sit on the ground with your knees bent and your feet flat on the ground. Hold your hands together in front of your chest and lean back slightly, keeping your back straight. Then, twist your upper body to one side and then the other, using your obliques to control the movement.
3. Bicycle crunches: Bicycle crunches are a variation of the classic crunch that targets the rectus abdominis (the “six-pack” muscles) and the obliques. To do a bicycle crunch, lie on your back with your knees bent and your hands behind your head. Lift your head, shoulders, and upper back off the ground and bring your right elbow towards your left knee as you straighten your right leg. Then, switch sides, bringing your left elbow towards your right knee as you straighten your left leg.
4. Dead bugs: Dead bugs are a great exercise for working the muscles in your lower abdomen and back. To do a dead bug, lie on your back with your arms straight up in the air and your legs in the air, bent at a 90-degree angle. Lower one arm and the opposite leg towards the ground, keeping your back pressed into the ground. Then, switch sides, lowering the other arm and leg towards the ground.
5. Mountain climbers: Mountain climbers are a dynamic exercise that works the muscles in your entire core, as well as your arms and legs. To do mountain climbers, start in a plank position with your hands on the ground and your feet on a bench or step. Bring one knee towards your chest and then quickly switch, bringing the other knee towards your chest. Continue switching back and forth, keeping your core engaged and your body in a straight line.

Remember to always engage your core and maintain proper form when doing exercises to get the most out of them and avoid injury.

If you want to incorporate handstands into your core training, definitely grab my free video series below with my Top 4 Beginner Handstand Drills so you can tone up your core and learn a super cool new skill at the same time.