Three way crunches

This exercise strengthens your core and develops strength and control for everyday movements like bending and sitting up.
Intensity: Moderate
Recommended repetitions: 8-10

Before you get into your workout it’s important to warm up. Just 5 minutes of light activity is all you need. Things like:

  • Walking
  • Jogging on the spot
  • Pumping your arms
  • Shoulder rolls
  • Controlled punches
  • Circular ‘windmill’ arm movements in the air.
  1. Lie on your back, knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Bring your hands to the side of your head, lightly touching your ears.
  2. Perform a sequence of 3 crunches: first, crunch straight up, lifting your head and shoulders off the ground. Return back to the floor. Then crunch up bringing your right elbow toward your left knee. Return back to the floor. Finally, crunch up bringing your left elbow toward your right knee. Return back to the floor. That’s one repetition.
  3. Repeat this exercise 8-10 more times, using your core to lift your head and shoulders.

After your workout, cool down by following any of the above activities, again for 5 minutes. This is also a great time to stretch your muscles holding each stretch for 20-30 seconds. Make sure you hold at a point where you can feel the stretch but you shouldn’t feel discomfort or pain. Don’t bounce through these, just slow steady movements.

Disclaimer: If you have been inactive for a while, have heart disease, or a close relative with heart disease or if you have other major health problems, or are pregnant, please check with your doctor before following these workouts.

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