Building Core Strength in Stomach

Dark Phoenix

A sports trainer pointed out to me last week that I do not have enough core strength especially in my stomach area. This is something I am aware of myself and I suspect it is partly due to my poor posture as I tend to collapse through the stomach area a lot. My balance is decent.

I am fairly fit, I ride horses for 1.5 + hours six days a week and I would do 3-4k on a cross trainer 3-4 times a week. Physio has told me i have a lot of muscle on my back and shoulders and that I also have muscled thighs but far less on my calves. My stomach area by contrast would have far less muscle and strength compared to my back, shoulders, arms or thighs.

So My question is what is the best way to work my abs and strengthen my core and stomach area? is planking the way to go or is pilates / yoga better? Due to time constraints the gym and classes are not an option but I am prepared to do whatever i need at home - I have a cross trainer, some weights, a twisty board, balance ball etc.

thanks

Alf Veedersane

Planks, side planks and ab rollouts you could do at home.

Pilates is supposed to be good for the core but I've never done it so I don't know how good or not it is.

Dark Phoenix

Thank you in terms of ab roll outs is that sit ups / crunches or something different?
Also are there any youtube channels / shows / dvds people would recommend for this sort of area

Alf Veedersane

Here's a video.

You can start with planks. See how long you can hold one properly for. Here's a video on planks.

Planks are always a good place to start but have a gander at the video and make sure you do them correctly.

Dark Phoenix

great thank you

MartyMcFly84

I don't know if its down your alley but you could try kickboxing or Muay Thai kickboxing.

The rotational movement for punches and kicking is a fantastic core functional strength builder. It is also much more fun than reps and endless planks (although good exercises also).

Knee raises off a bar are also a great addition and you can vary from straight knee raise to side to side.

Dark Phoenix

willing to try anything that might work and that is feasible to do at home.

Mr. CooL ICE

If you happen to have a chinup bar, or anything to hang from, you could do hanging knee tucks.

If you have a big step, you could start practising L-sits. Having something with handles (e.g. a pair of dumbbells) could make it easier starting off.

Dark Phoenix

Was actually looking at a chin up bar in lidl yesterday! bit worried I'll hang it badly and pole axe myself though!