Don’t enjoy crunches? Well, we’ve got some good news, you don’t actually need to do them. There are plenty of other exercises out there that won’t just fire up your abdominal muscles, but your entire core system (including your lower back, pelvis and diaphragm). This Pilates workout is a great place to start and there isn’t a crunch (or weight) in sight. Just grab a mat, or a towel, and your gym water bottle.
Pilates is well-known for its core-strengthening benefits as the movements are primarily designed to target these muscles and (despite sample sizes often being small), studies show this too. One study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health found that women who completed a one-hour mat Pilates workout, twice a week, not only saw significant improvements in abdominal strength, lower limb strength, flexibility and balance.
For this workout you’ll rest 30 seconds between each exercise and 60 to 90 seconds between rounds. Try and aim for two rounds minimum, three if possible. If you need to half the reps for the first three exercises (as there’s quite a lot) do so. Make sure you really focus on your breathing to help you focus and fully engage those core muscles. As always, if you're unsure of any of the exercises below, have a quick watch of the video above. Here’s your workout:
- Bridge marches - 20 reps
- Toe taps - 20 reps
- Plank press - 10 reps
- Plank rocks - 10 reps
- Bird dog crunch - 10 reps
- Forearm plank touch - 10 reps
Whether you’re after more general Pilates workouts or core-specific ones, we’ve got plenty! Check out these three beginner core exercises as recommended by a Pilates teacher or, if it’s a full-body workout you’re looking for, this 8-move workout isn’t just great for strengthening your entire body, but improving your posture too.
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Two dumbbells, 30 minutes, and six exercises to build muscle all over and a stronger coreA simple home workout to add muscle all over and boost strength
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Tired of crunches? A fitness trainer recommends these five standing exercises for better core strength and stabilityThey're also great for improving posture too
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One kettlebell, 10 minutes and these five exercises to build a strong core and improve postureA strong core is the gateway to better movement, fewer injuries and bigger lifts
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Build functional strength in 30 minutes with two dumbbells and these four exercisesBend, lift and carry items easier (and look good while doing it)
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You don’t need to run – this full-body dumbbell workout burns fat, builds muscle and boosts your cardio healthThe many benefits of lifting weights
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Sculpt your abs and strengthen your core with this six-minute Pilates workoutIt’s a bodyweight burner that will leave your midsection on fire
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No sit-ups — just this four-move standing ab workout to build a stronger core
