Do your abdominal muscles need a little help? These two exercises will make them stronger and more toned.
By Priscilla Regli, Pilates coach
Pendulum
1. Lie flat on your back on a mat on the floor, your arms at your sides. Bend both legs to a 90-degree angle.
2. Place your hands behind your head and swing your bent legs over to the right, keeping your shoulders on the floor. Hold the position for three seconds.
3. Return to the centre and repeat on the left side.
4. Do this exercise eight times on each side.
Leg Lifts
1. Lie flat on your back on a mat on the floor, your arms at your sides. Bend your right leg to a 90-degree angle and touch your big toe to the floor.
2. Bring your left knee towards you by bending your leg gently.
3. Holding your left leg up, extend your right leg forward without letting it touch the floor. Hold the position for three seconds.
4. Repeat the exercise starting with the left leg.
5. Do this exercise eight times on each side.
Quick Tip
It’s important to contract your abdominal muscles during the exercises to avoid hurting your back. Your abs may burn a bit afterwards, but that means you’re working them. Do these exercises twice a week.
