Core exercises are an important part of a well-rounded fitness program – it pays to get your core muscles — the muscles around your trunk and pelvis — in better shape, as a strong core is vital to better balance and stability. If you need a little motivation or just a few new ideas, these exercise equipment choices can help you strengthen your core.
Medicine Ball Workouts – A medicine ball is a weighted ball that can provide an incredible variety of core strength workouts. With a medicine ball, you can strengthen your core with exercises that include medicine ball crunches, medicine ball planks, and the seated oblique twist. Medicine balls come in a variety of sizes, weights, and textures and can be used alone or with a partner to fully work your core and upper body.
Kettlebell Workouts – If you’ve not sure what a kettlebell is, they are bowling ball-sized cast iron weights with a round handle on top that comes in various weights and sizes. Lifting and moving the kettlebell forces the entire body to work in unison which improves both strength and stability. These are great for full body workouts, but to avoid injury, it’s best to consider getting professional instruction before starting kettlebell workouts.
Vertical Knee Raises – Vertical Knee Raises are one of the best abdominal exercises for the rectus abdominus (i.e. your abs!). To do this ab exercise properly, you need a piece of gym equipment called a vertical leg raise machine. You’ll need a bit of space for this piece of equipment, but they are the best tool for vertical knee raises. Vertical knee raises help to engage the full range of abdominal muscles as well as your obliques.
Rowing Machine Workouts – A rowing machine is a great way to get endurance exercise while focusing on core strength. This whole body exercise is a sure way to build ab strength. To properly execute a rowing machine workouts requires that you engage your core muscles throughout the entire rowing motion. If you’re looking to get a great cardio workout while also strengthening your core, using a rowing machine like the Concept 2 or Hydrow Interactive Rower is the perfect choice!
To learn more about these different choices in equipment for strengthening your core, visit any of Fitness 4 Home Superstore’s three Phoenix-area locations.
