I want to strengthen my core, but I'm just not a yoga or Pilates kind of guy ... and there's no way I can afford a personal trainer. What can I do at home or at the gym that will give me the same benefits?

ANSWER:

Here are three great moves that will strengthen your whole core. They’re simple and they can be done at the gym, or at home if you have a Swiss Ball. Do three sets of 15 reps each, three times a week with at least one day of rest in between.

Lying Leg Raises: Lie down on your back, hands at your sides. Raise feet 1 inch off the ground, keeping your knees slightly bent. Slowly lift your legs to 12 inches off the ground, then lower back to 1 inch off the ground. Repeat, without letting your feet touch the floor in between reps.

Swiss Ball Crunch: Lie down on the ball with your lower back over the center and knees bent so that both feet are flat on ground. Lean back so your torso is nearly parallel to the ground, and then slowly rise up until your torso is almost perpendicular. Repeat.

Supermans: Lie flat on your stomach. Holding both hands and feet straight out like you’re Superman flying, slowly lift hands and feet 6 inches off the ground and then lower to the floor. Repeat.

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