Ab Focused Exercises

We’re in the thick of the holiday season now, and if you survived Thanksgiving with only one tiny slice of pumpkin pie, then you’re probably ready to face all the Christmas cookies and gingerbread houses the end of the month has to offer.  As always, though, it’s best to eat full meals instead of giving in to every snack lying around the house.  And don’t skimp on exercise during the holidays, even if you are eating healthy!

Because this season is centered on delicious food, we thought we’d offer some stomach and ab focused exercises to get you through the rest of December.  Need a change of pace this season?  A little too cold to go on a long run where you are?  Here are few exercises you can do in your own home!  Don’t forget to get your heart rate up, no matter what you choose to do during the holiday season!

Ab Focused Exercises:

1. The Plank
   • That’s right, the dreaded plank is one of the best ab exercises you can do.  It’s simple, too!  Lie on your stomach, then hold your body up using your elbows and toes.  Hold this position for 30 seconds.  Rest. Then hold it again for 1 minute.  Repeat 3 times.
2. Mountain Climbers
   • Assume the plank position described above.  Bring your knees up toward your arms alternately, as if you were climbing.  If it’s easier for you, you can try raising to your hands and locking your arms.  Work through this exercise for 1 minute.  Rest.  Try it again for another minute.  Repeat 5 times.
3. Cross Body Climber
   • Lie on your back and clasp your hands behind your head.  Raise your left knee up toward your head and crunch up with your right side.  Your right elbow should meet your left knee.  Repeat with the left elbow and right knee.  Start off slow, then gradually pick up your pace for 1 minute.  Rest.  Try it again for another minute.  Repeat 5 times.
4. Heel Touches
   • Lie on your back and put your feet flat on the floor so your knees are bent.  Without lifting your upper body, use your straight arms to touch your heels.  Move fluidly, without bending or contorting as much as possible.  Try this for 30 seconds.  Rest.  Try it again for 1 minute.  Repeat 3 times.
5. High Knees
   • Run in place, bringing your knees up parallel to the ground.  As you raise your knees, crunch your abs and be sure to pump your arms for a good upper body workout.  Try this for 30 seconds.  Rest.  Resume for 1 minute.  Repeat 5 times.
6. Leg Balance Warrior
   • Stand on your left foot and raise your right leg until it’s a 90 degree angle.  Bend your right knee.  Reach forward with your upper body and straighten your right leg at the same time.  Stretch all the way through. Then return to a standing position.  Try this for 10 reps.  Rest.  Try 5 more reps.