Bedtime Core Workout
A rock solid core is every woman’s dream (or a day at the spa… or a shopping spree… or a hired cleaner… all things that I really can’t give you). But I CAN give you an effective core workout that will leave your core burning. Complete this bedtime core workout in the comfort of your very own bed with no equipment, so there’s no excuse to skip out on this laid-back routine.
One of the hardest things for me is to find time in my day to squeeze in a core workout. With our busy lifestyle I often skip working out my core because there really isn’t a “best” time to do it. With my upcoming trip to Punta Cana to motivate me I’ve been experimenting with different times of the day to work on my core strength. The best time I’ve found for myself is doing my core workout at bedtime. Over the past few weeks I’ve learned that performing core exercises before bed is one of the easiest ways to wake up with a stronger mid-section.
These moves can be completed in the comfort of your very own bed with no equipment, so there’s no excuse to skip out on this laid-back routine. Perform 1 minute of each exercise and do up to five rounds, depending on how much time and energy you have to devote to the routine. Avoid resting between repetitions and sets as the constant sequence keeps the core fired up, so your core muscles will get a better workout.
Bedtime Core Workout:
Perform 1 minute of each exercise and do up to five rounds
Planks with alternating shoulder taps – 1 minute
This plank variation works the entire body! Begin in a plank variation with your feet slightly wider than your hips. Bring your right hand to your left shoulder, then place that hand back on the mat. Bring your left hand to your right shoulder and return it to the mat.
Hamstring bridges – 1 minute
Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet resting on the floor. Keep your knees and feet hip-width apart throughout the exercise. Keep your toes facing forward and your ankles directly below your knees. Stretch your arms straight beside your torso with palms facing downward. Press through your heels and lift your hips off the mat. Contract your hamstrings and squeeze your buttocks together. At the top of the bridge, pulse your hips by squeezing and releasing your buttocks.
Sideplanks – 1 minute each side
Start on your side with your feet together and one forearm directly below your shoulder. Contract your core and raise your hips until your body is in a straight line from head to feet. Hold the position without letting your hips drop for the allotted time for each set, then repeat on the other side.
Toe touches – 1 minute
Toe touches can be done while lying in bed. Simply lie on your back and raise both feet in the air. Try to keep your legs straight with feet flexed as you reach up toward your feet with both hands. Lower back down with your neck in a neutral position. Try not to rest on your back too much between each repetition to really maximize the core muscle work.
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Enjoyed this workout? Let me know in the comments!
