Core exercises come in many forms. You don’t always have to be laying down.  There are other options available. In addition to doing core exercises laying on your back, front, or side, you can also do them from the sitting or standing position.  It is good to mix it up – here are some standing core exercises for variety.

I coach a gal that needs core exercises she can do besides laying on her back.  She has some acid reflux issues and being on here back makes the situation worse.  She is always looking for other options for her core work. 

Abdominal exercises while standing are a great way to work the muscles in your entire core.  Standing exercises gets you off the floor and works your abs in a new way. There are several benefits.

Benefits of Standing Abs Exercises

• Engage multiple muscle groups
• Improve posture
• Enhance balance and stability

Standing Exercise Examples

• Crunch
  • Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent
  • Place hands on back of head without interlocking fingers
  • Engage core
  • Curl shoulders toward waist, hold
  • Return to starting position with abs still engaged
  • Repeat 10-20 times
• Bicycle
  • Stand with feet together, knees slightly bent, hands behind head
  • Lift left heel up as right shoulder rotates toward knee (try to touch)
  • Engage core
  • Lower back to start and change sides
  • Repeat 10-20 times
• Stepping Chop
  • Stand with feet together, knees bent, arms overhead with hands clasped
  • With left leg, take a wide step to the side as arms chop down to left hip
  • Engage core
  • Return to start position and change sides
  • Repeat 10-20 times
• Extended Toe Touch
  • Stand on right leg, knee slightly bent, with left leg extended low behind hip
  • Extend right arm straight overhead, palm facing forward and raise left leg behind body
  • Engage core
  • Return to starting position, change sides
  • Repeat 10-20 times
• Side Bend
  • Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent
  • Place hands on back of head without interlocking fingers
  • Engage core
  • Bend to one side without twisting upper body
  • Return to starting position with abs still engaged
  • Repeat 10-20 times

In order to improve your strength and fitness, remember to start with proper warmups, drink plenty of water, rest, and choose healthy nutrition options. As a coach, I can help you with personalizing your plan, keeping you accountable, and supporting you on your journey.