In order to really get a strong core you really need to tone all the muscles in your stomach area. The rectus abdominus in the middle, which is where you see the six-pack is just the start. You should also work the obliques, the muscles on the sides of your torso. These muscles are essential for everyday activities like walking or twisting to pick up something, and they also stabilize your body and support your lower back. Here are 5 great oblique exercises to try in your next workout.
Side Plank
Lie on your side with the forearm on the ground and the elbow under the shoulder and your other hand straight in the air. Straighten your legs and keep the heels in line with your glutes. Lift your hips off the mat and hold for 45-60 seconds.
Forward Lunge and Twist
Start in a standing position with the feet together and, with or without a weight, step forward with one leg and lower into a lunge. Both legs should be bent to 90 degrees and the arms, at shoulder height, and abs twist over the forward leg. Return to start and repeat on the other side. Do 10 reps on each side.
Sprinter Sit-Up
Lie on your back with your hands by your sides and the legs straight on the floor. Sit up explosively and bring up the right knee towards your chest and the right arm back and left arm forward at 90-degree angles. Reverse with control and repeat on the other side. Do 20 in total.
Cross Body Mountain Climbers
Start in a tall plank position with your wrists under your shoulders and the legs straight. Drive the right knee to the left elbow and return to start position. Repeat on the other side and do as many as you can for 60 seconds.
