Sit-ups aren’t the only way to strengthen your core, and as this Pilates ab workout shows, you can work your vital core with more functional movements.
The next installment of Sweat With SELF’s new Pilates series focuses on your entire core. New York City-based certified personal trainer and Pilates instructor Sina Riemann leads a 15-minute, equipment-free workout that targets all of your key muscles, including your rectus abdominis (front of your abdomen), obliques (sides), and transverse abdominis (the deep muscle between your ribs and pelvis). A strong core is essential to moving safely and efficiently, whether in everyday life or at the gym.
This workout repeats some famous Pilates ab exercises, including the Seated Leg Lift, Plate 100, Mermaid (and an enhanced Mermaid Archer), High Plank with Twist, Plank with Hip Dip, and Side Plank. Throughout the routine, you’ll learn tips and tricks to customize the workout for your fitness level. For example, bending your knees and lifting your legs in Pilates 100 makes the movement a little easier, making it more accessible for beginners.
Many of these exercises ask you to make small movements rather than large, wide ranges of motion, which helps you work your muscles more effectively.
Ready to get started? Grab your yoga mat, set aside 15 minutes, and get ready to build strength with a Pilates ab workout!
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