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Getting a strong and toned core is essential for any athlete. A tight core can make it easier to move faster, jump higher, and make more precise movements on the field or court. In addition, having a strong core can help prevent injury and improve overall athletic performance. There are many different ab workouts that can help an athlete enhance their performance, so we’ve compiled a list of the best ab exercises specifically designed to get you that strong, toned core you need.
Shop The Collection: Smith MachinesBefore getting into the specific exercises, it’s important to understand the basics of abdominal training. When trying to develop your abs, it’s important to use correct form and breathing in order to maximize the effectiveness of your workout. When performing ab exercises, keep your posture straight and your back slightly arched. It’s also important to remember to breathe in and out with each rep. This will help you stay focused and keep your muscles working properly.
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Crunches are one of the most popular ab exercises, and for good reason. They’re simple to perform and can be done anywhere. To do a proper crunch, start by lying flat on your back with your feet flat on the floor and your knees bent. Place your hands across your chest or behind your head and then raise your shoulders and upper body off the ground. Hold this position for a few seconds before slowly lowering your body back down to the ground. Repeat this 10-15 times for a great ab workout.
Shop The Collection: Stability & Balance TrainersThe plank is a great exercise for strengthening your core. To perform the plank, start by getting into a push-up position. Bend your elbows and rest your weight on your forearms instead of your hands. Your body should be in a straight line from your head to your heels. Hold this position for 30-60 seconds, focusing on keeping your core engaged. Once you’ve held the plank for the desired time, lower yourself back to the starting position.
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Oblique crunches are a variation of traditional crunches and are great for targeting the sides of your abdominals. To do an oblique crunch, start by lying on the floor with your feet flat on the ground and your knees bent. Place your hands behind your head, then twist your torso to one side while bringing your elbow towards your opposite knee. Hold this position for a few seconds before returning to the starting position and repeating with the other side. Do 10-15 reps of oblique crunches for a great ab workout.
V-ups are a great exercise for not only strengthening your core, but also improving your balance and coordination. To do a V-up, start by lying flat on your back with your arms and legs extended. From this position, simultaneously lift your arms and legs off the ground and bring them together until your body forms a “V” shape. Lower your arms and legs back to the starting position and repeat 10-15 times for a great core workout.
Leg lifts are a great way to work your lower abs, and they can be done anywhere. To do a leg lift, start by lying flat on your back with your arms at your sides. Then, lift both legs off the ground and hold them in the air for a few seconds before slowly lowering them back down to the ground. Repeat 10-15 times for a great lower ab workout.
Bicycle crunches are another great exercise for targeting your entire abdominal area. To do a bicycle crunch, start by lying flat on your back with your hands behind your head and your legs raised off the ground. Then, twist your torso to one side while bringing your opposite elbow to your knee. Alternate sides and continue for 10-15 reps.
Having a strong and toned core is essential for any athlete looking to improve their performance. Through a combination of the right exercises, proper form and breathing, and consistency, you can develop a strong core and take your athletic performance to the next level. With these ab exercises, you’ll be able to get the core strength and stability you need to succeed on the field or court.
