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I can’t recall the last time I included crunches in my own core routine – it has been quite awhile. Crunches will tone the abdominal muscles, but as I stated in an earlier blog post, we don’t live our lives flat on our backs. Rather, we bend, reach, twist, turn, squat, stoop, walk and step up. All of these motions engage the muscles in our core, so it only makes sense to train them in a manner that mimics real-life movement. Doing so will improve everyday functional movements, and tighten, tone and strengthen the muscles that form a girdle around the mid-section, supporting our core, and allowing us to safely flex and extend the spine.
A terrific way to work the core using only a stability ball and a weighted ball (medicine ball) is the seated overhead reach. Sitting on a stability ball, hold a weighted ball (4-8lbs) out in front of your chest. Make sure your feet are flat on the floor, pelvis is engaged, and shoulders are relaxed. With straight arms, extend your arms overhead until the ball is slightly behind you. Follow the ball with your eyes for added balance challenge. You can check out the video here!

* Note: Blue Sky Gym and the author disclaim any liability for any injury, physical or emotional, suffered during or as a result of exercise or activities recommended. As always, you should use common sense and consult your health professional before beginning any exercise routine or program.