Shred Your Core With This 15-Minute Program

Illustrations By Mark Collins
Lead Photo By Arsenik Studios Inc.

When December rolls around you may be thinking more about holiday treats than your core. But despite the fact that hockey and snowboarding may not require you to bare your torso, maintaining a strong abdominal area is important even in the coldest of weather. As Jay Zuccato, former Inside Fitness cover model and the designer of this routine, explains, “Your core is the foundation to performing any exercise at the gym, even push-ups and squats.” Plus, the quick-paced nature of this workout is sure to elevate your heart rate – and even if you’re only working out for 15 minutes, as in this program, that ensures you’ll burn more calories, adds Zuccato.

Get Started

Do these exercises in order five times through. Don’t rest between exercises, but pause for 30 seconds after the last move before starting your next round.

TRX Windshield Wiper

Hold onto the handles, set high off the ground, and hang below them. Lift your legs straight to the ceiling and rotate them from side to side. Do 15 reps per side.

Barbell Rollout

Kneel and hold a barbell under your shoulders in the ground. Keep your core strong as you roll the bar in front of you, keeping your arms straight. Return to the start. Do 30 reps.

Landmine Rotation

Hold the end of a barbell with the other end anchored. Tighten your abs as you move the bar in an arc from one side to the next. Do 15 reps on each side.

Slider Mountain Climbers

Get into a push-up position with sliders or folded towels under your feet. Keep your hips low as your alternate bringing your knees in toward your chest. Continue for one minute at a high intensity.