Plank leg raise: Begin in a standard plank (arms straight). Be sure to focus on pulling your navel toward your spine, just as you would in a standard plank. Stack your top foot on your bottom foot and stretch your free arm up toward the ceiling. Side plank: While keeping your spine straight (as you would for a standard plank), lift one hand up and turn your body so that you are facing the side instead of the floor. This is a good variation for yoga beginners! And you even have some options to help you build core strength in different ways… with a power yoga spin!įorearm plank: Rest on your forearms instead of on your hands with straight arms.

It’s no secret that planks are among the best core exercises for women. The more core strength you have, the better you’ll be able to complete seemingly simple daily activities like bending down to tie your shoes! Core strength can also reduce the risk of falls and injury and prevent chronic pain, especially in the back.

It also enhances your balance and stability. Core strength can help you build strength throughout the rest of your body, tone your torso, and achieve your overall health and fitness goals.

You can add in the exercises below throughout your yoga flow – or do them on their own!ĭid you know that core exercises for women are about more than just toning your abs?Īccording to Harvard Health, there are a lot of benefits to building core strength.

Believe it or not, core strengthening can be FUN! Strengthening this muscle group to a fun, music-filled yoga class will make it feel like less of a chore.

Core exercises more than just toned abs – a strong core equals a healthier, happier you!.

Even better, since they are all bodyweight moves, you can do them without requiring any additional equipment.

Yoga incorporates many of the moves you see here.

Download fun core workouts