Abs and core workout (15 minutes)
A strong core helps your lifts, your posture and your back. This short routine hits the front, sides and deep core muscles.
- Level
- All levels
- Days a week
- 3
- Where
- Gym or home
- Session
- 10 to 15 min
Who it suits: Anyone, as a finisher after training or a short session on its own. Goal: A stronger core.
How to use this plan
- Warm up for 5 to 10 minutes with light cardio and a few easy sets of the first exercise.
- Choose a weight you could lift 2 or 3 more times than the reps listed. The last reps should feel hard but controlled.
- Log every set. Next time, try to beat your last session by one rep or a little more weight.
- Rest the time shown between sets, and a day or two between sessions that train the same muscles.
Core routine: Abs, obliques and deep core
| Exercise | Sets | Reps | Rest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plank | 3 | 30 to 45 s | 30 s |
| Dead Bug | 3 | 10 each side | 30 s |
| Lying Leg Raise | 3 | 10 to 15 | 30 s |
| Bicycle Crunch | 3 | 12 to 16 | 30 s |
| Side Plank | 2 | 20 to 30 s each side | 30 s |
Notes
- You cannot spot-reduce belly fat with ab exercises. Fat loss comes from your overall diet and activity, and core training makes the muscles underneath stronger.
Common questions
- How long does this plan take?
- Each session takes about 10 to 15 minutes, 3 days a week.
- How do I know when to add weight?
- When you can complete every set at the top of the rep range with good form, add a small amount of weight (about 2.5 kg for upper body and 5 kg for lower body) and start again at the bottom of the range.
- What if I miss a session?
- Just pick up where you left off. Do not double up to make up for it. Consistency over months matters far more than any single week.
More workout plans
General information, not medical advice. Learn each movement with light weight first, stop if something hurts, and see a doctor or physiotherapist if you have an injury, a health condition or are pregnant.