looking for workouts to strengthen my core

pixydoodle

lI'm a big girl - over 200 lbs but weak for my size, i need to strengthen my core, back, and limbs. I have free access to a gym - what should i be doing to strengthen myself - i really want to work on my core

anasf139

Hey! There's lots you can do! If you have access to a stability ball or a BOSU. Both of these are great. Apparently any exercise you do on these are more effective than on a mat/floor. Core wise, I do crunches, cross crunches and planks using the ball as well as back exercises, I dont know the name of... sorry. Other wise just floor work. Same exercises. The main thing is to get the technique right to ensure you don't hurt your back!

pixydoodle

Hey! There's lots you can do! If you have access to a stability ball or a BOSU. Both of these are great. Apparently any exercise you do on these are more effective than on a mat/floor. Core wise, I do crunches, cross crunches and planks using the ball as well as back exercises, I dont know the name of... sorry. Other wise just floor work. Same exercises. The main thing is to get the technique right to ensure you don't hurt your back!

what is a BOSU and what are cross crunches?

addisondisease

A BOSU ball is that big inflated ball, get into a sphinx/push up like form on the ball and stretch your body out till you are tight, hold for 30 seconds rest 30 go 30 more etc.

Also front squats are great on the core and will help you lose fat since its a compound lift.

skinnyrn2

A BOSU ball in the gym looks like a half of a stability ball with a flat bottom. You can stand on it to maintain balance, and this aid in strengthening your core. The balancing act you do on this ball is what enables you to get stronger.

vs1023

Planks are great for your core:

http://physicalliving.com/the-5-minute-plank-for-core-strength-stability-and-rock-hard-abs/

I used to do squats on the BOSU and yes it's half a stability ball with a flat bottom.