3 Exercises To Help You Keep A Strong Core this Holiday Season

The stressful schedule frequently associated with the holiday season can wreak havoc on healthy habits. A survey performed in 2023 by the American Psychological Association revealed that over 40% of U.S. adults feel more stressed during the holiday season. Thankfully, exercise, in any form, has been shown to release beneficial hormones, increase focus, and improve mood. With that said, one specific component of the personal training we provide at Tampa Strength can help everyone feel good all year long.

Incorporating core training into your fitness routine can improve your balance and posture while reducing your chance of injury. Yes, core training includes exercises for your abs, but it also includes exercises for your glutes, quads, lower back, and obliques. We love core training at our South Tampa studio because clients of all ages can benefit from having a strong core regardless of their fitness goals. The following videos showcase three specific core exercises that anyone can do to build core strength & stability.

Mini band floor plank clock

Place a mini resistance band on your wrists and setup in the push-up position. Reach your right arm to the 2, 3, and 4 o’clock positions. Then, reach your left arm to the 10, 9, and 8 o’clock positions. Maintain a plank position and keep your arms fully extended during the entire movement. Perform 5 repetitions on each arm.

This movement enhances shoulder mobility, core stability, and glute strength.

Kettlebell crush grip dead bug

Laying on your back, raise your knees till they’re directly over your hips, and your calves are parallel to the floor. Hold a weight, preferably a kettlebell, directly over your chest with both hands. Slowly extend your left leg until it is just above the floor. Bring the leg back to the starting position and repeat the movement with the right leg. Make sure your lower back and head stay on the ground during the entire movement. Perform 5-10 reps on each leg.

This movement enhances hip flexor strength and upper body stability.

Thread the needle with a cable

Set up in the quad ped (hands & knees) position on the ground and push your butt towards your heels. Keeping your left hand on the ground, thread your right arm close to the ground between your left knee and elbow, dropping your right shoulder towards the ground. Grab one handle of the cable machine and pull your right hand back to your right armpit. Finish the movement by pointing the right elbow to the ceiling. Make sure your eyes follow the path of the pulling arm. Repeat for the desired number of reps then repeat the process with the other arm.

This movement enhances thoracic spine mobility and upper body flexibility.

 

 

 

If you’re ready to experience how a strong core can help you feel good all year long, stop by our South Tampa personal training studio. Call 813-731-2901 to schedule your complimentary movement assessment and workout.