Need some core workout ideas (body weight and weight lifting ideas)

I hate--really hate ab work. So I look for exercises that give me the biggest bang for the buck.

Front squat
TRX pike
Cable pull lying leg raises
Oblique weighted side bends on hyper-extension platform
Pallof Press on cable (you can do it with resistance bands, but I like the cable

The core is often worked hard in compound movements. These are often performed to target other areas - for example the military press is seen as a shoulder exercise but works the core also.

The daddies of compound exercises - squat and deadlift - are great for the core.

Without seeing your leg, arm, back and shoulder routines it's difficult to tell if you are already doing core work but I would recommend that you investigate some established strength routines rather than trying to generate your own. This thread contains masses of information on the subject:

http://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/discussion/10332083/which-lifting-program-is-the-best-for-you

I'm one of the few around here who suggests targeted core work. Can be done just a few minutes before your regular workout. Depending on your current level, you may need to adjust any of the following. Hollow body, superman, Lsit, hanging leg raises, ring support hold.

What are you trying to achieve or improve?

I've learnt to love my core work, and it's paying off in terms of easier activation of my core during squats and deads. Staples of mine are Turkish get ups, windmills, barbell rollouts, land mines, Pallof press, dead bug, weighted hyperextensions, planks, oblique crunches, and a few holds. Spread throughout the week it's only a couple extra minutes a day.

Starting at nearly 200lbs, exercise had become difficult for me. So I focused on food first and am now slowly adding in some exercise since I've lost a little weight. I belong to a healthy lifestyle facebook group started by my sister and we started doing month long challenge workouts. We are currently almost done with a 28 day plank challenge. Started at 20 seconds, we are now up to 250 seconds with the end goal being at 4 minutes. I am proud to say I can do a full, non-modified plank for nearly 2 minutes. Then I have to modify to my elbows for the last 30-40 seconds but I tell you what....I am so much stronger. And my middle is getting smaller. They're working! And really take no time at all. 4 minutes doesn't seem like much....but it really is. Having a strong core will prepare you to take on more difficult/intense work outs and decrease your chance of injury. Planks.