5 exercises to strengthen your core

The hard truth is, any Baywatch pipe dream of a sculpted midriff can only come true with a good, sturdy core —essentially all the muscles in your torso, from your shoulders down to your hips. Long story short, it's a pivotal part of your entire body. And even if you're not one whose main goal is to achieve a rocking bikini bod, there's no denying that you need a strong core for a productive workout in the gym. Forget doing decent pushups or deadlifts, as even your posture could suffer without a firm foundation. Coach Zack Sakuwan from TripleFit guides us through a few easy workouts you can easily do at home (in front of the television, or with music blasting) to strengthen your core. 

Bird Dog

Begin on all fours with hands under your shoulders and knees under your hips. Keep your back straight while extending your right arm and left leg up, making sure that each arm and leg is in line with your back. Balance for 5 seconds before returning to starting position. Do 10 reps for each arm and leg for 1-3 sets.

Plank

Begin by lying on stomach, with your elbows bent and weight on forearms. Lift body up, with weight on elbows and toes. Keep back straight with your core tight. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat this for 1-3 sets.

Side Plank

Begin by lying on side with arm bent and weight on elbow. Keep legs straight with weight on the outer foot in contact with the floor. Lift body up, with weight on elbow and foot. Bring top arm straight up for progression. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat 1-3 sets.

Reverse Crunch

Begin by lying on back with both feet in the air. Lift pelvis off the floor and return. Hands should be flat on the ground at sides for stability. Do 10-20 reps for 1-3 sets.

Leg Lifts

Begin by lying on back with legs flat. Slide hands under rear for stability and lower back support. Slowly lift legs off the ground and bring back to starting position. Do 10-20 reps for 1-3 sets.