4 Resistance Band Exercises for a Stronger Core

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Having a strong core is crucial to support your whole body. Having a strong core isn’t about having chiseled 6-pack abs. Your core is actually made up of several different muscles. These main muscle areas include your front abdominals, obliques, lower back, and glutes. These muscles support your entire body, most importantly your spine. Your core is where your body holds the power to carry out any general movement like standing, walking, bending over, and sitting up and down.This is also a great list for those that are looking for a change in their workout routine. Resistance bands can be found at any department store, online, or at your gym! If you and your physical therapist are working on building a stronger core, check out this list of exercises below that you can work on at home.

Resistance bands are great because they can add a slight challenge to any workout. Resistance bands can be found at any department store, online, or at your gym! If you and your physical therapist are working on building a stronger core, check out this list of exercises below that you can work on at home.

1. Oblique Twists

Start with both handles under or around your right foot and the loop around your left hand so that the band crosses your body. Position both hands behind your head standing straight up. Twist your upper body to the left and slowly twist back to the center. Perform this movement 15 times on each side for 3 rounds. This exercise targets your obliques, front abdominals, and lower back.

2. Side Bends

Start with your feet hip-width apart. Put both handles under or around your right foot and hold the loop in your right hand. Press the loop up so that your arm is straight up and put your left hand on your hip. Crunch and lean your body to the left side then return to the center. Repeat this movement 20 times on each side for 3 rounds. This exercise targets your obliques, front abdominals, and lower back.

3. Lower Ab Press

Lay flat on the floor and bend your legs at 90 degrees. Position your feet in the middle of the resistance band and hold a handle in each hand. Push your feet straight out while keeping your hands in the same spot then bring your feet back to 90 degrees. Your upper body and hips should remain flat on the floor. Repeat this movement 15 times for 3 rounds. This exercise targets your front abdominals.

4. Prone Leg Extension

Position yourself on your hands and knees on the floor. Loop the band around your left foot and extend the handles up to each hand (the band should be on the outside of your left leg and through the middle). Flex your left foot and push your left leg straight back to 90 degrees. Bend your leg back in. Think of this movement as a “donkey kick”. Keep your abs engaged and focus on pushing with your glutes. Repeat this movement 25 times on each leg for 3 rounds. This exercise works your abs, lower back, and glutes.

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