Gary Potter
It took a long time for me to understand what a core is and how it affects everything you do. Did you know that even over age 50 it’s possible to strengthen your core and reduce your waistline?
As much as I complain about Planks, they are one of the six best exercises recommended for strengthening your core or 6–pack muscles and to tighten your waist.
The second is the dreaded Russian Twist. This exercise works your obliques, or better known as love handles.
Number three is to strengthen the deeper muscles of your core, and it’s the easiest of the six. It’s called Dead Bug. (The name should be changed for obvious reasons.)
Moving on to number four is the strain of the infamous Leg Raises. This exercise targets the muscles of the lower abdominals which also helps pulling up the pelvis and sucking in the gut.
Moving on to the fifth, and it’s a bit more challenging, the Side Plank. This exercise works the obliques, improves balance and stability, along with posture. It engages muscles in hips, shoulders, and core all at the same time.
The last is Bird Dog. This exercise will also strengthen the deeper muscles of the core and promote improved posture and stability.
There you have it, but keep in mind that muscle weighs more than fat, so as you lose inches you may find yourself gaining weight. The solution to this is to stay off the scale.
If you’re not sure how to perform these movements, try a REPS class or Circuit training class at the Elevate Movement Studios. You can also contact our Director of Fitness, Lois Moncel, at [email protected].
Remember to: Make Fitness a Part of Your Day