Sometimes having to get down on the floor and back up again is the last thing you want to do. These moves require minimal equipment and zero floor work but are still effective for targeting your midsection.
Do 3-4 sets of each exercise. If you’re a beginner, use a lighter weight but don’t cut down the reps.
Side bend
Hold a dumbbell in each hand at your sides, feet shoulder width apart. Brace your core and with control lean sideways, reaching your hand towards your knee. Engage your muscles to slowly pull yourself back up to center. Repeat on the opposite side.
Repeat 5 times per side.
Core twist
Hold a dumbbell in both hands with your arms straight out in front of your chest. Engage your core and twist your abs to one side, holding the weight in place, then twist slowly and with control to the center and repeat to the other side. This move also works your upper arms and shoulders.
Repeat 5 times per side.
Toe touch
Stand on one leg with the knee slightly bent. Raise the other leg behind keeping it lower than hip level. Raise the opposite arm of the raised leg straight above your head, then scoop your abs and engage the muscles as you bring your leg forward and your arm down to touch (or get as close to touching as possible).
Return to start and repeat 5 times on each side.
Wood chop
Hold a dumbbell in both your hands, stand with your legs slightly wider than your shoulders for a more stable stance. Raise your arms up over your right shoulder, keeping your eyes on your hands, your arms should be bent but engaged. Bring them down diagonally across your body, lowering down and bending your knees while rotating your torso to the left. Keep your legs and hips square through the motion.
Repeat 5 times, then switch to the other side.
Bent toe touches
Stand with your feet outside shoulder width, arms stretched out to your sides. Slightly bend your knees, engage your core, hinge at the hips throwing your hips back as you reach diagonally with your right hand to your left foot. Keep your back as straight as possible throughout the movement. Stand back up and repeat with the opposite side.
Repeat 5 times on each side.