BowFlex Circular Core Workout

One of the foundations for a healthy, fit body is establishing core muscle strength. But what exactly is core strength? Is it six-pack abs? The answer – yes and no. Technically, the abdominal muscles are only one segment of what is considered the "core". So your best bet if you're looking for abs that impress and strength to boot? Focus on more than just crunches!

Watch the BowFlex Circular Core Workout from BowFlex Fitness Advisor Amy Dixon. This combination of exercises will help develop the necessary strength and stabilization to give you a solid foundation. You'll have better posture, improved balance and before you know it, you'll be well on your way to a BowFlex body.

Here is the core workout:

Plank

Think about your form before you add any movement to this at all. Push the floor away, feel the engagement in your abdominals. Shoulders should be directly over your wrists.

Walk The Plank

Walk one arm down on to your forearm, followed by the other. From there, walk the plank back up on to your hands. Alternate this, back and forth. Do as many reps as you can until you feel like you cannot accomplish even one more repetition.

Dynamic Beast

Unfamiliar with the name? It's very similar to "child's pose" in yoga. This exercise feels great in the upper body, allowing your wrists and shoulders to take a break while giving your hips a nice stretch.

Hip Circles

In plank position, bring one leg up and bend at the knee. Start by rotating counter-clockwise, and then transition to a clockwise circle. Keep pushing the floor "away" to keep the abs engaged. You may feel some fatigue in your core from this exercise, but you'll get some wonderful mobility in the hips.

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