Target Area 3: Tight Abs

Hi Everyone, 

This is part 3 of today's workout. If you haven't yet try: Target Area 1: Arms and Target Area 2: Lower Body. This is the core section. Having a strong core does more than give you sexy abs, it also helps prevent back pain and supports your postural alignment. 

One of the guys on the cross country team asked me today why core work and stretching is so important. Answer: it helps you maintain proper alignment. This helps you in everything you do, and can prevent injuries. For runners it is especially important because running is a repetitive motion. That means if you have a misalignment in your back, hips, etc, you are putting undue stress on other joints (like your knees) over and over again. By strengthening your core, and keeping your muscles flexible and balanced you can help prevent these types of injuries. 

Runners aren't the only ones who suffer from postural difficulties so be sure to stretch, and keep your core and back strong!

Enjoy the workout!

Melissa

Beginner: 10 reps
Intermediate: 15 reps
Advanced: 20 reps

1. Knee Drop Plank
2. Cheeck to Cheek Plank
3. Bicycle
4. Full Flexion Leg Lift (Plough Pose in Yoga)
5. Temple Tap Abs
6. Handstand (this isn't a rep exercise).