
Safe Core Stability Exercises
February 05, 2025Building core strength is essential for overall stability, injury prevention, and functional movement. Incorporating safe and effective core stability exercises into your routine can improve posture, balance, and strength while reducing the risk of back pain. Below are six exercises designed to engage and strengthen your core safely.
Single Hand to Knee Press
This exercise helps activate deep core muscles and promotes stability.
How to do it:
• Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the table or floor.
• Tilt your pelvis back to maintain a neutral or flat spine.
• Press one hand against the opposite knee, creating resistance.
• Hold for 15-30 seconds, then switch sides.
Dying Bug
A great exercise for core coordination and stability.
How to do it:
• Lie on your back with arms extended toward the ceiling and knees bent at 90 degrees.
• Engage your core by drawing in your tummy and bracing.
• Slowly lower the opposite arm and leg while keeping the other side stable.
• Return to the starting position and switch sides.
• Complete 10-20 reps on each side.
Bird Dog
This exercise enhances core control and balance.
How to do it:
• Start in a tabletop position with hands under shoulders and knees under hips.
• Brace your core and extend one arm and the opposite leg simultaneously.
• Avoid twisting or arching your back.
• Hold briefly before returning to the start position.
• Complete 10-20 reps per side.
Modified Side Plank
A beginner-friendly way to strengthen the obliques and improve core stability.
How to do it:
• Lie on your side, supporting yourself on your elbow and a bent knee.
• Keep your spine and hips aligned while bracing your core.
• Hold the position for 30-60 seconds on each side.
Multifidi Walkout & Press
This exercise engages deep stabilizing muscles and challenges rotational control.
How to do it:
• Secure a resistance band to a stable anchor at chest height.
• Stand sideways to the anchor and grab the band with both hands.
• Take 2-3 lateral steps away from the anchor while maintaining a braced core.
• Press your hands forward without letting the band rotate you.
• Complete 10-20 presses per side.
Suitcase March
A functional core exercise that improves unilateral stability.
How to do it:
• Hold a weight in one hand while keeping your core engaged.
• Slowly march in place, lifting your knees while avoiding sway.
• Complete 20 marches before switching sides.
Final Thoughts
These exercises are excellent for developing core strength while minimizing strain on the spine. Whether you're an athlete, recovering from an injury, or simply looking to improve your stability, incorporating these movements into your fitness routine will help you build a solid foundation. Always focus on maintaining proper form and controlled movements to maximize benefits and prevent injuries.
Ready to strengthen your core? Give these exercises a try and feel the difference in your stability and strength!
Ready to Strengthen Your Core? Book an Appointment Today!
Looking for expert guidance on improving your core stability and overall health? Our physical therapists and specialists at Coury & Buehler Physical Therapy are here to help! A representative will be in touch shortly.WANT MORE TIPS?

Alex loves hanging out with friends, watching basketball, learning new things, binging shows and hitting PR’s in the gym. In his free time he enjoys spoiling his two German Shepherds, King and Duke.
Latest posts by Alex Keuilian, PT, DPT, CSCS (see all)
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