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Exercises to improve your core strength

Double-leg abdominal press

When you're comfortable with the single-leg abdominal press, try the double-leg abdominal press for more core strength:

  • Lie on your back with your knees bent (top illustration). Keep your back in a neutral position, not arched and not pressed into the floor. Avoid tilting your hips. Tighten the abdominal muscles.
  • Raise your legs off the floor, one at a time, so that your knees and hips are bent at 90-degree angles. Rest your hands on top of your knees (bottom illustration).
  • Push your hands against your knees while using the abdominal muscles to pull your knees toward your hands. Keep your arms straight. Hold for three deep breaths.
  • Return to the start position and repeat.