Written by Roberto Benitez, Boxing Personal Trainer at Golden Ocala.

A very important workout routine that I like to do at the end of my training is to work my core muscles. Core exercises are an essential part of a well-rounded fitness program because your core affects your balance and stability.

The Best 3 Core Exercises

The first exercise in this routine is called the bicycle. This is where you lie on your back with your hands behind your head and rotate your body from side to side. You’ll bring your right elbow towards your left knee as you straighten the other leg, and then repeat on the other side. However, my version of the bicycle has a twist to make it a little more challenging. In my version, you will simultaneously raise up your chest and then lower it back down as you perform the bicycle movement.

Demonstrating the bicycle exercise.

Moving on to the next core exercise in my workout routine, let’s talk about the single leg hip thrust. In addition to working the core, this exercise also works the gluteal muscles as well as the back muscles. The key with this exercise is to raise up and hold your leg for about five seconds before dropping your leg back down.

Demonstrating the single leg hip thrust.

The last exercise is one of my favorites. It’s called the Pokey-Up and it works your core muscles in those hard-to-hit target areas. For this exercise, you’ll lay flat on your back with your arms on the ground next to your body. Focus on shooting your feet up to the sky, while still maintaining control of your body.

Demonstrating the Pokey-Up.

Let’s Break Down these Exercises with a Video

If you need more fitness tips or want to book a private session with me, call the Golden Ocala Fitness Center at 352-402-4350. I offer fitness programs for all ages including great boxing personal training sessions. Remember, a body in motion keeps on coasting!