Core Carving Workout Routine

When you hear the word core, you probably think of your abdominal muscles first. But your core muscles are so much more than just your abs.

When it comes down to overall strength and fitness, it’s your entire core that should be the focus, not just the muscles that make up your six pack. Your core covers all the muscles between your chest and your hips, and that includes everything on the front, back, and sides.

When you break it down, the list is a decent one: abdominals (upper, middle, and lower, which are all really part of a single muscle called the rectus abdominus), internal and external obliques, lower back, and the lattissimus dorsi, the muscle then run down your sides from under your arms.

By focusing on strengthening and building all of these muscles, your entire workout routine will transform. You’ll notice an increase in strength, stamina, balance, and even endurance.

So if you’re tired of your same old ab routine, start thinking in terms of your core, and give this core carving workout routine a try.

30 Minute Workout to Carve Your Abs and Core

For each exercise, perform as many reps as possible per set. When it comes to your core muscles, you really want to work them until muscle failure or fatigue.

Run through this workout, and repeat if you have some extra time. One circuit should take only 30 minutes or so.

Ready to get ripped? Here’s the workout:

1. One-Legged Plank, 30 seconds per leg – Perform a traditional plank, keeping your torso aligned and your score muscles engaged throughout. Then lift one leg for 30 seconds, balancing on the other. Repeat on the opposite leg.

To view this exercise, click here.

2. Deep Wall Squats, 3 sets – Standing about two feet from a wall, facing outward, engage in a squat so that your back slides down the wall for support. Rather than stopping at the typical distance, go even deeper, until your buttocks almost hits the floor. Hold for 3 counts, then return to starting.

3. Hip Extension, 3 sets per side – Position yourself on all fours on a mat, hold your back straight, and lift one leg upward toward the ceiling behind you. Hold for 3 counts, lower in control, and repeat with opposite leg.

To view this exercise, click here.