I try to avoid the word “core” because I believe it has been branded as a synonym for crunches and endless “ab only” exercises. I prefer to use terms like “trunk”, “hip girdle”, “center mass”, and “stability training” that can be considered “core” training. I just don’t want to confuse people with the fitness industry branded meaning of the word (Core -endless abdominal only exercises). I prefer more complex total body movements that effectively engage the midsection along with hips, shoulders, and/ or multiple body parts. (Abdominal only exercises are not bad, but I believe in most exercise programs they are misplaced as the top priority).
Replace hanging knee raises or leg lifts, crunches, ball sit ups, bicycles with movements that will engage the entire body while effectively tax the abdominals, as well as, improve your conditioning base.
Here are some exercises that you can substitute for the abdominal focused “core” movements.
Burpees and variations (single leg burpee)
Kettlebell swings, and Swing variations
Partner exercises (wheel barrow)
Overhead Squats (yes, overhead squats) Coach Leo Seitz strength and conditioning coach at Texas State once told me, “A sure fire recipe for a strong mid-section is some heavy overhead squats”
