LIFE+ Blog

1. Draw belly button in, grab hold of band anchored to the wall.
2. Step out 2-3 steps, then press the arms out and in slowly.
3. Resist the band pulling you into rotation.
4. Start with 2 sets of 10 repetitions on each side.

1. Front plank is on elbows face down; side plank is on one elbow facing perpendicular to the ground.
2. Draw belly button in, and resist gravity from sagging the hips down.
3. Hold for time, start with 2 sets of 15-30 second holds.

1. Lie on your back with arm up toward ceiling and legs lifted in 90-90 position.
2. Hold a yoga ball between the top of your knees and the bottom of your forearms.
3. Keep the low back pressed into the ground.
4. Reach the right arm overhead, and Left leg down like they are hovering inches above the ground.
5. Bring them back and repeat with the opposite arm and leg.
6. Repeat for 2x10 reps.

1. Lie on the back and press low back into the ground.
2. Hold legs, extend lifted a few inches above the ground, and arms extended overhead lifted few inches above the ground.
3. Hold position then use momentum to rock towards feet and then back towards head without losing tightness in the core.
4. Can do for reps or time. Try 2 sets of 10-20 rocks or 2 sets of 15-30 seconds.

These exercises are much safer for your spine without the continual bending and compressing you get from endless crunches, causing wear and tear along the joints. A lot of people have trouble initiating proper core control and often overuse their back paraspinal which can lead to pain or spasms.

At Coury & Buehler PT, with our experts in movement and function, we can show you the proper way to engage the deep core muscles, and cueing to help the right amount of activation without incorrect compensation leading to pain. This will protect your spine for the long haul and get you started on your track to a strong core! These are entry-level exercises to get you started.