July 21, 2015

6 Yoga Poses for Strong Abs

A few months back I got a few requests to share my workout plan and I’ve been meaning to do a post on this for some time, but I was traveling a lot and insanely busy with work. Oh, and it’s winter and I get really discouraged when it’s freezing outside. A big bowl of soup and a glass of wine pretty much always sound better than exercising—am I right? But now it’s warming up, I’m finding more balance in my life and have been going to yoga a little more regularly.

So that workout plan! I don’t really have any schedule I really stick to. I walk at least an hour everyday—the perks of having an active pup! Other than walking, I rely on yoga to keep myself in shape. I also find that it’s really good for my mental health too and why not kill one bird with two stones?

What I love about yoga poses are that they tone my body quickly without making my muscles bulky like heavy weight-lifting can. No matter what time of year, I always make sure to focus on my abs a least a bit. Not only do I love having toned abs, but a strong core helps keep your back protected too and any ab exercises will help with that!

These 6 yoga poses are my favorites for toning my abs and also my arms, legs and booty. Oh, and you’ll get a good laugh when you see my face in the last pose—haha!

6. Dancer

Dancer is a good pose for toning your abs, arms and legs. Keep your core tight to help with balance and make sure to keep your hips even.

5. Side Plank

This one is great for your obliques and also your arms. If I’m feeling really balanced, I’ll try a different variation and pull my leg up to my knee or raise it an extend it out.

4. Boat Pose

Make sure to keep your abs tight and don’t crunch your neck or lower back. There’s several variations, so feel free to adjust as you get stronger! If this is too hard, try keeping your legs bent at 90 degree angle to the ground or supporting them gently with your hands.

3. Warrior III

There’s warrior I & II, but Warrior III is definitely the most challenging of them all and gives you a great ab and butt workout. Remember to breathe through this one, I forget a lot!

2. Wheel

Wheel is a great one for your whole body. Once you’re in the position, take a few deep breathes. It’s also a good stretch for your abs.

1. Headstand

This one is definitely tougher and having a strong core is key to getting your legs above your head and keeping them there. Just recently was I able to do this pose! It took me several years before I could finally do it. I typically practice my headstand against a wall — just in case I fall over — because that does happen occasionally.