Getting a strong core...

VeryKatie
VeryKatie Posts: 5,961 Member
edited November 2024 in Fitness and Exercise
Hello!

I've really been meaning to build up a stronger core...
So far my exercise plan will include mostly weight lifting (Strong Lifts 5x5) and possibly light to moderate cardio (Secondary).

I've heard you will build a strong core with SL, but the more intense core workouts come as you increase weights. I'd like to get a bit of a head start (since my SL is slow moving so far, don't ask why, you'll tell me to stop making excuses hahaha). My thoughts would be to do a core routine after SL so that I still get the benefit from weights (and don't have to do as long of a core routine) but can progress a little farther a little faster on core stuff.

You may be wondering why. It's because I may be considering having a baby in about 1-1.5 years and I've heard good things about better or faster ab recovery if you start with a stronger core. Whether that is true or not, I am not sure... but it doesn't seem like I'd have anything to lose! Fitness = good after all!

Does anyone have any suggestions of core exercises or routines (or even routines that may not specifically be for your core but are still great for it) that you could do in conjunction with SL 5x5?

Stats if you need them:
Female 26 (almost 27)
Height 5' 5"ish
Weight 133 lb ish

Thanks!

(Feel free to throw in a great flexibility routine too actually... I have big dreams for the home gym I hope to build in August/September when I move into a place that has the space!)

Replies

  • TheVirgoddess
    TheVirgoddess Posts: 4,535 Member
    edited July 2015
    Yoga, yoga, yoga! It will teach you to mindfully engage your core, and it will be second nature when lifting, too.

    If you need a place to start - try Yoga With Adriene on YT. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v7AYKMP6rOE
  • VeryKatie
    VeryKatie Posts: 5,961 Member
    Thank you! Yoga is one thing I wanted to try.

    Not sure if it's the only thing I could be doing for core though so I'm interested in other suggestions too. :)
  • yogicarl
    yogicarl Posts: 1,260 Member
    If you try Ashtanga Yoga once or twice, I don't think you will feel like you need to look for anything extra.
  • dizzieblondeuk
    dizzieblondeuk Posts: 286 Member
    I've had a bad back (lower back muscular pain) for years, and tried various forms of core strengthening exercises. Yoga is OK, but I find that certain moves aren't good for me. Pilates, on the other hand, has transformed my core strength. After just a few months, I have reduced my back pain to nearly zero, and I've noticed a sizable difference in my flexibility and strength in being able to do other kinds of exercise.

    If you're healthy and have no spinal issues, then I'd choose from between the two simply on the basis of which I enjoyed more. For me it's pilates, because of my pre-existing issues.
  • demoiselle2014
    demoiselle2014 Posts: 474 Member
    Pilates is good for core strength. Also, right now I am doing MFP's 30 Day Plank Challenge. Planks are great for abs but should be done with good form.
  • DuckReconMajor
    DuckReconMajor Posts: 434 Member
    I still find it very hard to engage my core during a workout and to do that pilates breathing while doing the exercises. I feel like engaging my core restricts my movement and it's very frustrating. But I think i'm getting better at it.
  • MelissaPhippsFeagins
    MelissaPhippsFeagins Posts: 8,063 Member
    VeryKatie wrote: »
    Thank you! Yoga is one thing I wanted to try.

    Not sure if it's the only thing I could be doing for core though so I'm interested in other suggestions too. :)

    You can't beat yoga for a good core and flexibility workout. Even my restorative yoga class works my core.
  • roger515
    roger515 Posts: 2 Member
    I would check out www.Bodybuilding.com
    They have many programs. Jim stoppages 12 week program talks about micro cycles to help you progress weights faster and build strength quicker. Check it out.
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