Do you want a strong, healthy core but don’t have time for the gym? Or maybe you’re traveling and don’t have access to a fitness center. No problem! You can still get a great workout by doing some simple moves that target your core muscles. In this blog post, we will discuss some easy moves that you can do anywhere (even at work!) without any equipment necessary. Let’s get started!
Standing Elbow to Knee
This can be a great warm up exercise as well as a brain warm up! From a standing position, start by raising one knee to the opposite elbow and then lower back down. Then repeat on the other side. Try to keep the movement slow and controlled for the best effect. Try 20-30 repetitions at first until you get use to that amount. By using body parts on opposite sides of your body, this will also engage both hemispheres of your brain.
Seated Bicycle Pedal
Jack LaLanne was a pioneer in the fitness industry, and his impact is still felt today. The Jack LaLanne seated bicycle pedal is a simple yet effective way to tone the abs and improve cardiovascular fitness. It is no wonder that this pedal is still popular today, more than 50 years after it was first invented. One of his most popular inventions is the seated bicycle pedal. However we can do the same exercise without the equipment.
- When sitting in your chair, move down to the edge of your seat
- Use your armrests or grab the edges of the chair to keep yourself supported
- Now pretend you’re riding a bicycle; bring each knee close to your chest while keeping your abdominal muscles contracted.
- Focus on a “pedaling” movement with smooth circles.
Seated Russian Twist
The seated Russian twist is a great way to work your core muscles, even if you’re stuck at a desk all day. While normally it is done sitting on the floor and using a medicine ball or kettlebell for weight, you can still get most of the effect without getting your work clothes dirty.
- Sit on the edge of your chair. Lean back slightly, keeping your back straight, and place your hands on your temples.
- From there, twist your torso to the right, then to the left, and continue alternating sides for 30-60 seconds.
You can make the exercise more challenging by holding a weight in your hands, or by elevating your feet off the ground. The seated Russian twist is a great way to get a quick workout in, even if you’re short on time. Plus, it’s a low-impact exercise that won’t stress your joints.
