10 Minute: Tighter Waist Core Workout

Standard
Hi Everyone!

This workout is focused on strengthening and toning the core, and creating a leaner/tighter waist. I chose several moves that utilize the deep abdominal muscles. 

The deep abdominal muscles act like a muscular corset to create a leaner and stronger mid-section. When combined with cardio this is a really great workout for strengthening and sculpting your abs. 

I paired this workout with a run. I was planning on filming a new workout tonight, but I forgot that Jesse is taking our nephew to his first Hockey game! I am two days away from my half marathon so I only did one round of this workout, and paired it with an easy paced run, and 4 two minute intervals at my desired race pace. The week of a race it’s important to keep your body feeling fresh, without overdoing the mileage or the intensity. 

If you aren’t a runner I listed a cardio option below, or you can pair this with one of my Cardio Workouts for a bonus cardio challenge. 


See you tomorrow!
Melissa

PS You can also find me on FacebookInstagram and Twitter. Jesse has also been posting Sneak Peek workout videos on his Instagram account. 

PPS This workout outfit is from Affitnity. You can get 15% off any purchase by using the code BenderFitness at checkout! 


Click the link to get your own Gymboss Interval Timer!

Repeat 1-4X

Set your Interval Timer for 10 rounds of 10/50 seconds.  

*Optional Cardio Boost: Set your Interval Timer for 20 rounds of 10/50 seconds and add 50 seconds of mountain climbers, high knees, or jump rope in between each exercise.  

1. Plank
2. Reverse Plank Leg Lift
3. Side Plank Reach (right)
4. Side Plank reach (left)
5. Temple Tap Abs
6. V-Up Twist
7. Reach Through
8. Leg Lift
9. Hip Lift
10. Crunch and Tap

Legs and Core Workout: Body Weight Sculpting

Standard
Hi Everyone!

After an insanely busy weekend I am back with a new workout! 

This workout is low impact on your joints, but challenging. It is focused on strengthening and sculpting your midsection, butt and thighs. You can repeat this workout 1-4X. 

I went through this workout once and ran 4 miles on the treadmill at incline .5 in 31 minutes and 39 seconds. I want to make sure I’m not to tired come race day. 

My half marathon is just a few days away, so I will be writing about my training schedule. Be sure to check back if you’re interested! This is a great workout to help maintain proper running alignment, and improve your form and endurance during running. It’s a great routine to add to your cross training. 

Even if you’re not a runner, it’s a great workout. 

Have fun! Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram, Twitter or Facebook(@BenderFitness and  #BenderFitness) if you’re following along! 

See you later with a new workout and Half Marathon Training update. 
Melissa
Don’t forget to check in on FacebookInstagram, or Twitter!



Equipment: Gymboss Interval Timer set to stopwatch for time. 

Reps:
Beginner: 10 reps
Intermediate: 15 reps
Advanced: 20 reps

1. X-Plank
2. Hydrant Extension (right)
3. Hydrant Extension (left)
4. Lunge to Warrior III (right)
5. Lunge to Warrior III (left)
6. Down Dog-Plank-Up Dog
7. Modified Side Plank Reach (right)
8. Modified Side Plank Reach (left)
9. Leg Series (right)
10. Leg Series (left)
11. Crossed Twisting Sit-up (right)
12. Crossed Twisting Sit-up (left)

Repeat 1-4X

Diet Bet Challenge: Day 27: Swimsuit Ready Arms and Abs

Standard
Hi Everyone!

We are nearing the end of the Diet Bet Challenge! Today is Day 27. 

Tonight’s workout is all about Arms and Abs. This workout targets the key muscle groups from a variety of angles to maximize the benefits. I am often asked for workouts targeting the arms and abs. It’s never to early to get started, there is no reason to wait for warm weather to work on your mid-section. 

How are you doing with sticking to a healthy diet plan? For many people diet is the hardest part of the equation, but it can result in huge benefits to your fitness, your aesthetic and your health. 

Have fun today!

See you tomorrow!
Melissa

PS Don’t for get to check in on FacebookInstagram or Twitter  to let me know how you’re doing with your goal! I can’t wait to see all of the progress pictures!


Beginner: 10 reps
Intermediate: 15 reps
Advanced: 20 reps

1. One Minute Plank
2. Tricep Dip with Leg Lift (right)
3. Pump Handle Abs
4. Tricep Dip with Leg Lift
5. Superman Heel Tap
6. Side Plank Hip Lift Reach (right)
7. Side Plank Hip Lift Reach (left)
8. Bicep Curl (right)
9. Bicep Curl (left)
10. Slow Leg Extension Circles
11. Plank Extensions
12. Full Extension Burpee

DietBet Challenge: Day 24: Plank and Burn

Standard
 

Hi Everyone!

Good job sticking with the Diet Bet Challenge! You’re on Day 24 so we are almost at the end of the challenge. 


This workout alternates jump roping and 15 different plank variations to work the entire mid-section and back. Being able to do the plank with proper form results in more than just stronger abs, it also improves the strength and resilience of your low back. This helps prevent injury, and relieve low back pain. 

If you aren’t sure if you have proper form ask someone, look at yourself in a mirror or have someone take your picture while you hold plank. 

Although this is an incredibly effective exercise, it is often performed inaccurately. 

During Leg Lift Plank don’t allow the back to arch.
Maintain a strong core throughout the movement to support the low back
and activate the glutes. 

I hope you all enjoy this workout. Remember, if you don’t have a jump rope you can substitute high knees or mountain climbers in between planks. 

Have fun!
Melissa

PS Check in on FacebookInstagram or Twitter to let me know how you’re doing with your goal!

Click the link to get your own Gymboss Interval Timer!

*Plank 50 seconds per exercise, Jump Rope 30 seconds between each exercise. 
The entire routine takes 20 minutes. 

1. Forearm Plank
-Jump Rope
2. Right Side Plank
-Jump Rope
3. Left Side Plank
-Jump Rope
4. Chatarunga Plank
-Jump Rope
5. Rotating Plank (on the forearm)
-Jump Rope
6. Knee Drop Plank
-Jump Rope
7. Plank Jack
-Jump Rope
8. Elbow Tap Plank (right)
-Jump Rope
9. Elbow Tap Plank (left)
-Jump Rope
10. Leg Lift Plank
-Jump Rope
11. Plank Crunch
-Jump Rope
12. Side Plank Hip Lift (right)
-Jump Rope
13. Walk the Plank 
-Jump Rope
14. Side Plank Hip Lift (left)
-Jump Rope
15. Plank Step
-Jump Rope

Diet Bet Challenge: Day 17: Summer Ready Tummy Workout

Standard

Hi Everyone!

It’s Day 17 of the DietBet Challenge! Are you ready to workout your core? 

Don’t skip core day, strengthening your midsection helps protect your back and improve your posture. 🙂

The shorts I am wearing in this workout video are from Affitnity. If you registered for the DietBet Challenge you have a chance to win a $50 Gift Card to Affitnity, plus you can always get 15% off of your order by using the code BenderFitness at checkout. 

How are you doing with the challenge? I want to know! Tell me on FacebookInstagram, or Twitter.

Melissa

PS You can find me on FacebookInstagramTwitter and Pinterest. Jesse has also been posting sneak peek workouts moves/tutorials on his Instagram page. 

Beginner: 10 reps
Intermediate: 15 reps
Advanced: 20 reps

1. Plank Jack
2. Pendulum Squat
3. Temple Tap Abs
4. Pendulum Hop
5. Plank Crunch Pushup
6. Twisting Sumo Squat
7. Weighted Leg Lift Abs
8. Star Tap
9. Crab Toe Touch
10. Runner’s Lunge Twist

Repeat 1-3X

Diet Bet Challenge: Day 15: Trial By Burpee

Standard
Hi Everyone!

Today is Day 15 of the DietBet Workout Challenge! Get ready to Burpee!  

You should be noticing the results of all the hard work you have been putting in this month! You can choose to complete this workout for time or for reps. The breakdowns for both options are listed below. 

Some people find that they push harder for reps, and others benefit from going for time. Which do you respond to? 
Melissa

Don’t forget to check in on FacebookInstagram and/or Twitter!


Click the link to get your own Gymboss Interval Timer!

Complete the Workout for Reps:
Beginner: 10 reps
Intermediate: 15 reps
Advanced: 20 reps

or

All Levels: Max reps for 60 seconds, 30 seconds Max Rep Burpees in between each exercise. (High Knees or Mountain Climbers can be substituted if the Burpees become to intense). 

*You can set your interval timer to 6 rounds of 60/30 second intervals. 

1. Walk the Plank
2. Burpees
3. Rock the Boat
4. Burpees
5. Right Leg Circles
6. Burpees
7. Left Leg Circles
8. Burpees
9. Leg Series (right)
10. Burpees
11. Leg Series (left)
12. Burpees

Repeat 1-3X

Diet Bet Challenge: Day 10: Abs on Fire

Standard
Hi Everyone!

Welcome to Day 10 of the DietBet Challenge! Today’s workout is focused on the core. 

Having a strong core is important year round. Your core supports your spine, impacts your balance, and helps maintain the alignment of your hips. If your core is weak your entire body is impacted. 

This workout combines cardio intervals to maximize your fat burn, with strength training movements to work all of the muscles in your core. To reveal your abs it’s important to combine both aspects (cardio and strength) during your workout. 

You are currently 10 Days into the 30 Day Challenge! I hope you’re feeling stronger and healthier than ever!

Enjoy!
Melissa

Don’t forget to check-in on FacebookInstagram or Twitter once you have completed your workout! 
Click the link to get your own Gymboss Interval Timer!
Beginner: 10 reps, 30 seconds timed
Intermediate: 15 reps, 45 seconds
Advanced: 20 reps, 60 seconds

Repeat 1-3X

1. Mountain Climber
2. Leg/Hip Lift
3. High Knees Toe Tap
4. Ab Angel
5. Mountain Climber
6. Tricep Leg Lift
7. High Knees Toe Tap
8. Russian Twist
9. Mountain Climber
10. Rotating Side Plank Leg Lift

Diet Bet Challenge Day 3: Tighter Tummy Sculpt

Standard

Hi Everyone!

Day 3 of the DietBet Challenge is focused on sculpting a tighter tummy. A strong core is imperative to a healthy lifestyle. Your core impacts the biomechanics of your entire body. 

One round of this workout takes 15 minutes. If you want to increase the intensity you can incorporate 30-45 second intervals of jump rope or high knees between each exercise. 

You can also choose to pair this workout with 30 Minutes of Cardio of Choice for an added burn. If you are running keep it at a comfortable talking pace today. 

Today is the first official day of the DietBet! It isn’t to late to register (over $11,000 in the pot, plus a chance to win gift cards to Total Nutrition and Affitnity (Don’t forget you can always get 15% off at Affitnity by using the code BenderFitness)! You can sign up for the challenge here: www.dietbet.com/BenderFitness

Enjoy the workout!
Melissa 

Equipment: Gymboss Interval Timer set for 15 rounds of 10/50

Repeat 1-3X

1. 3 Part Abs
2. Temple Tap Abs
3. Crescent Plank (right)
4. Crescent Plank (left)
5. Heel Tap Abs
6. Angel Abs
7. Plank Crunch
8. Russian Twist
9. Elbow Tap Hip Lift (right)
10. Elbow Tap Hip Lift (left)
11. Boat Lift
12. Slow Mountain Climber
13. Leg Scissor
14. Tricep Leg Lift
15. Cheek to Cheek

*I paired this workout with 30 minutes of Cardio. 

23 Minute Full Body Workout

Standard
Hi Everyone!

It’s workout time!

Today I am sharing a Full Body Workout. For today’s workout I used my Interval Timer on the stopwatch function and completed the workout for reps. You can also chose to setup the workout interval style. 

When going for reps I like to time the round and see if I can improve my time. Of course, you always want to focus on maintaining appropriate form for each exercise. During this workout focus on keeping your core engaged the entire time. This will help improve your form, and increase the core benefits during every exercise. 

If weight loss is one of your goals, don’t forget to sign up for my first DietBet Challenge.  The goal of the challenge is to lose 4% of your starting weight over 4 weeks. You can sign up now, and the challenge starts in September. You bet on yourself, and if you achieve your goal you win $$$, and have a chance at some great prizes. 

You can find information about the challenge by clicking on the link, or go directly to www.dietbet.com/BenderFitness to sign up for the challenge. 

I hope you have fun with today’s workout!
Melissa 

PS You can also find me on FacebookInstagram and Twitter. Jesse has also been posting Sneak Peek workout videos on his Instagram account. 


Click the link to get your own Gymboss Interval Timer!

Beginner: 10 reps
Intermediate: 15 reps
Advanced: 20 reps

Repeat 1-3X

1. Burpee
2. Leg Series (right)
3. Leg Series (left)
4. Heel Tap Plank
5. Lunge Kick (right)
6. Lunge Kick (left)
7. Pendulum Squat
8. Lunge Reach (right)
9. Lunge Reach (left)
10. Sumo Squat Twist
11. Single Leg Squat (right)
12. Single Leg Squat (left)
13. Forward Fold Leg Extension (right)
14. Forward Fold Leg Extension (left)
15. Burpee

16 minute Stomach Toning Fat Burn Workout

Standard
Hi Everyone!

Today’s workout combines cardio and moves to sculpt and tone your mid-section. Most people want a tighter tummy, and this workout will help you achieve that. 

To get noticeable results you need to burn fat, and strengthen your muscles at the same time. This workout is challenging and will have you sweating! The exercises in this routine were selected to challenge your core from every angle and sculpt a lean mid-section. 

If you haven’t checked out my September DietBet Challenge yet you can find information about the challenge by clicking on the link, or go directly to www.dietbet.com/BenderFitness to sign up for the challenge.  I am giving away some great prizes within the challenge! 

I hope you enjoy tonight’s workout!

Melissa


PS You can also find me on FacebookInstagram and Twitter. Jesse has also been posting Sneak Peek workout videos on his Instagram account. 


Click the link to get your own Gymboss Interval Timer!

Set your Interval Timer for 16 rounds of 10/50 seconds.

Repeat 1-3X

1. High Knees or Jump Rope
2. Mountain Climbers
3. Temple Tap Abs
4. Walking Pushups
5. High Knees or Jump Rope
6. Mountain Climbers
7. Angel Abs
8. Plank Crunch
9. High Knees or Jump Rope
10. Mountain Climbers
11. V-Up
12. Knee Drop Plank
13. High Knees or Jump Rope
14. Mountain Climbers
15. Hip Lift Toe Touch
16. Spiderman Plank Extension


10 Minute: Tighter Waist Core Workout: Workout for a Smaller Waist

Standard
Hi Everyone!

This was my workout today. Today’s workout if focused on strengthening and toning the core, and creating a leaner/tighter waist. I chose several moves that utilize the deep abdominal muscles. 

The deep abdominal muscles act like a muscular corset to create a leaner and stronger mid-section. When combined with cardio this is a really great workout for strengthening and sculpting your abs. 

I paired today’s workout with a 6.27 mile run outside. I am trying to get back into the habit of making Sunday my long run day. I haven’t been getting in much consistent mileage lately so I am slowly going to build up the length of my Sunday runs. 

If you aren’t a runner I listed a cardio option below, or you can pair this with one of my Cardio Workouts for a bonus cardio challenge. 

Jesse and I also completed the #ALSIceBucketChallenge and made a donation to the ALS Association

You can find the video here:  Bender Fitness #ALSIceBucketChallenge

Have fun! Feel free to laugh at me if you check out the Ice Bucket Challenge video. I despise being cold (I was less nervous to go Sky Diving than I was to dump that water on my head!)

See you tomorrow!
Melissa

PS You can also find me on FacebookInstagram and Twitter. Jesse has also been posting Sneak Peek workout videos on his Instagram account. 


Click the link to get your own Gymboss Interval Timer!

Repeat 1-4X

Set your Interval Timer for 10 rounds of 10/50 seconds.  

*Optional Cardio Boost: Set your Interval Timer for 20 rounds of 10/50 seconds and add 50 seconds of mountain climbers, high knees, or jump rope in between each exercise.  

1. Plank
2. Reverse Plank Leg Lift
3. Side Plank Reach (right)
4. Side Plank reach (left)
5. Temple Tap Abs
6. V-Up Twist
7. Reach Through
8. Leg Lift
9. Hip Lift
10. Crunch and Tap


5 Minute Core Workout

Standard
Hi Everyone!

I finally have time to play catch-up and get some stuff posted here! Sorry for going MIA, it’s been a busy few days! I am really looking forward to getting back on track with my workouts. I have been having trouble making time for them. 

I will point out that I said “making time.” I could have fit them in (15 Minute HIIT anyone?) Starting today I am re-commiting to making time for my workouts, and my blogging. Expect to see more workouts from me this week. 

For this quick, core workout, one round takes 5 Minutes. This is a great workout to repeat, to do if you are in a time crunch, or to use as a core interval in-between rounds of another workout. 

This is a great core workout for runners. I will also be posting it on my running blog: www.BenderRunning.com

Have fun! Check back later for more NEW workouts, and a few recipes that I have been waiting to share. 🙂

Melissa
You can also find me on FacebookInstagram or Twitter

Click the link to get your own Gymboss Interval Timer!

Set your Interval Timer for 5 rounds of 10/50.  

1. Mountain Climber
2. Heel Tap Abs
3. Single Leg Pushup
4. Bicycle
5. V-Ups

Repeat 1-5X

Core Workout for a Tighter Tummy

Standard
Hi Everyone!

This was my workout last night. It’s a quick core workout, but you will definitely feel it! This routine works the core from every angle, to strengthen and tone your mid-section. 

I incorporated exercises to pull-in the waist, and work the love handle area. The core is more than just the “six-pack.” It includes your back and sides as well. 

Building strength through your core helps protect your low back, and provide postural alignment for everything you do. If you build a balanced core you can reduce back pain. As a bonus, the postural improvements can help re-align your hips and get rid of the “belly pouch” that many people notice in their low abs. 

I hope you enjoy this workout!
Melissa


PS You can find me on FacebookInstagramTwitter and Pinterest. Jesse has also been posting sneak peek workouts moves/tutorials on his Instagram page. 

Click the link to get your own Gymboss Interval Timer!

Set your Interval Timer for 12 rounds of 10/50. 

1. Mountain Climber
2. Leg/Hip Lift
3. Burpee
4. Temple Tap
5. Side Plank Reach (right)
6. Side Plank Reach (left)
7. Angel Abs
8. Frogger
9. Bicycle
10. Reverse Plank Leg Pull-up
11. Boat Kick (Can-Can)
12. Pushup Jacks

Repeat 1-3X

Reverse Plank: Maintain a straight line from heels, hips to shoulders. 

Reverse Plank Leg Pull: Maintain Reverse Plank Position.
Once you are able to maintain Reverse Plank for 30-60 seconds add the leg pull.
Keeping the hips in the same spot, tighten the core to lift your leg.
Alternate sides. 


Plank and Burn: Jump Rope and Plank for Tighter Abs

Standard
 

Hi Everyone!

We had a busy weekend. I will be writing a blog post about the race I did yesterday. I am hoping to have time to film a new workout tonight and get it posted, but we have some things to take care of tonight so I have to be flexible with my time this evening. 

If I can’t get it done tonight I will be filming it as soon as I get home from work tomorrow.

In the meantime this is one of my older workouts. I enjoyed this workout a lot, and I have wanted to repeat it. 

This workout alternates jump roping and 15 different plank variations to work the entire mid-section and back. Being able to do the plank with proper form results in more than just stronger abs, it also improves the strength and resilience of your low back. This helps prevent injury, and relieve low back pain. 

If you aren’t sure if you have proper form ask someone, look at yourself in a mirror or have someone take your picture while you hold plank. 

Although this is an incredibly effective exercise, it is often performed inaccurately. 

During Leg Lift Plank don’t allow the back to arch.
Maintain a strong core throughout the movement to support the low back
and activate the glutes. 

I hope you all enjoy this workout. Remember, if you don’t have a jump rope you can substitute high knees or mountain climbers in between planks. 

Have fun!
Melissa

Click the link to get your own Gymboss Interval Timer!

*Plank 50 seconds per exercise, Jump Rope 30 seconds between each exercise. 
The entire routine takes 20 minutes. 

1. Forearm Plank
-Jump Rope
2. Right Side Plank
-Jump Rope
3. Left Side Plank
-Jump Rope
4. Chatarunga Plank
-Jump Rope
5. Rotating Plank (on the forearm)
-Jump Rope
6. Knee Drop Plank
-Jump Rope
7. Plank Jack
-Jump Rope
8. Elbow Tap Plank (right)
-Jump Rope
9. Elbow Tap Plank (left)
-Jump Rope
10. Leg Lift Plank
-Jump Rope
11. Plank Crunch
-Jump Rope
12. Side Plank Hip Lift (right)
-Jump Rope
13. Walk the Plank 
-Jump Rope
14. Side Plank Hip Lift (left)
-Jump Rope
15. Plank Step
-Jump Rope

Summer Ready Tummy Workout

Standard

Hi Everyone!

This is a throwback workout that is fantastic for your core. It utilizes challenging moves that work your entire core to help you get a sculpted middle. 

This workout was filmed about a week after my first NPC Bikini competition, so seeing it is a good motivator for me! The last several months we have had many major life events happen and my workouts haven’t been as consistent as I would like. 

To add another thing to the list of craziness, yesterday the brakes on my car failed while I was driving. It was a terrifying experience, but I am okay and managed not to hit anything. 

I intended to film a new workout tonight, but I came home from work utterly exhausted and took a much needed (3 hour!) nap. After the stress of yesterday I think my body needed the sleep more than a workout. 

So I will see you tomorrow when I get home from work with a new workout. In the meantime enjoy this one!
Melissa

PS You can find me on FacebookInstagramTwitter and Pinterest. Jesse has also been posting sneak peek workouts moves/tutorials on his Instagram page. 

Beginner: 10 reps
Intermediate: 15 reps
Advanced: 20 reps

1. Plank Jack
2. Pendulum Squat
3. Temple Tap Abs
4. Pendulum Hop
5. Plank Crunch Pushup
6. Twisting Sumo Squat
7. Weighted Leg Lift Abs
8. Star Tap
9. Crab Toe Touch
10. Runner’s Lunge Twist

Repeat 1-3X

15 Minute Stomach Sculpting Workout HIIT

Standard

Hi Everyone!

Tonight’s workout is focused on sculpting the midsection and burning fat. One round takes 15 minutes, and you can repeat it up to 3x. The routine incorporates movements to get your heart rate up and burn fat, with core strengthening moves. It works your midsection from every angle, which is key to having a tighter, more sculpted core. 

Tonight I went through the workout 1X and paired it with two mile repeats on the treadmill. I did my first mile at a hard pace. It was mentally challenging. During runs my mind wants to give in and quit, even when my body is handling the workout. I like running at a comfortably challenging pace, but pushing beyond that is tough. That push (and struggling through it) is one of the best ways to improve your running speed, so I am going to keep incorporating faster running into my workout routine. 

I completed my first mile in 6 minutes and 31 seconds. I took a quick rest and then I slowed down my second mile to 7 minutes and 28 seconds. The second mile felt so good, and like a comfortable pace compared to the first mile. It doesn’t matter what your paces are, incorporating speedier work (at  your own pace) will help you get faster. You will be amazed at what you are able to accomplish, and how quickly your perception of your running paces will change. 

I hope you enjoy today’s workout! See you tomorrow. 
Melissa

PS You can find me on FacebookInstagramTwitter and Pinterest. Jesse has also been posting sneak peek workouts moves/tutorials on his Instagram page. 

Click the link to get your own Gymboss Interval Timer!
Set your timer for 15 rounds of 10/50. 

1. High Knees
2. V-Up
3. High Knees
4. Side Plank Leg Lift (right)
5. High Knees
6. Side Plank Leg Lift (left)
7. High Knees
8. Bicycle
9. High Knees
10. Crab March
11. High Knees
12. Frogger
13. High Knees
14. Rock the Boat
15. High Knees

Repeat 1-3X

Tighter Tummy Workout

Standard
Hi Everyone!

This is an older workout. I am headed to NY for a funeral so I didn’t have time to film a new workout. I will be gone for a few days, but I plan on sharing some old workouts and challenge moves over the course of the weekend. 

This is a fun and challenging workout. You should definitely feel your core working throughout to help build strength and definition throughout your midsection. 

You can repeat this workout up to 3X. As always, focus on using proper form. Although this is a timed workout, and you are going for maximum number of reps in a set interval, never sacrifice form for speed. Without proper form you aren’t getting the full benefits of the exercise. 

I hope you enjoy the workout!
Melissa


Timed:
Beginner: 10 reps
Intermediate: 15 reps
Advanced: 20 reps

or complete this workout HIIT style: Equipment: Gymboss Interval Timer set for 10 rounds of 10/50. 

1. Mountain Climbers
2. Temple Tap Abs
3. Side Jump Abs
4. Oblique Reach (right)
5. Oblique Reach (left)
6. Speed Skater Jump
7. Windshield Wiper Plank
8. Extended Arm Pulse
9. Plank Jack
10. Downward Dog Cross Pushup

Repeat 1-3X

5 Minute Ab Workout: Exercises for a Tighter Tummy

Standard


Hi Everyone!

This is a 5 Minute Ab Workout Challenge. I found it surprisingly challenging for such a quick workout! You can pair this with a cardio workout, with a Sculpted Abs Challenge workout, or complete it as a workout on it’s own. 

I enjoyed the quick workout burst I got with this routine. I might try adding it into my mornings 2-3X per week before I go to work. 

I did a 4.7 mile run outside right before doing this workout. I am also posting a link to a cardio workout video below as an alternative if you would like to increase the workout intensity. 

I hope you enjoy the workout! See you tomorrow with a new one! Don’t forget to check in on FacebookInstagram, or Twitter to let me know how you’re doing with the challenge. 🙂

Melissa



Equipment: Gymboss Interval Timer set for 5 rounds of 10/50. 

1. Frogger
2. Hip Lift Hook
3. Plank Leg Lift
4. Bicycle
5. Mountain Climber

*You can repeat this workout if you are up to the challenge!

Click HERE for a list of Cardio Workouts. 

or try:

15 Minute Cardio Cut-Up Workout

Quick Core Challenge: Sculpted Abs Workout

Standard

Hi Everyone!

The Sculpted Abs Challenge continues! This workout is set up in a different format. I utilized a modified Tabata approach to the workout. The video, and a picture tutorial can be found below. 

Tabata workouts only take 4 minutes, but it is 4 minutes of 100% effort/intensity. The breakdown is 20 seconds of maximum effort, followed by 10 seconds of rest. This is especially effective on an exercise bike, treadmill, or on a track. 

This workout uses the same 20/10 formula. One round takes 12 minutes. Due to the complexity of the movements you can’t work at quite the same level of intensity as you would doing sprints or biking, so I repeated each movement 3X before moving onto the next exercise. 

If you want to try another Tabata style workout check out: Burn Baby Burn for a challenging workout tutorial.

Have fun! Don’t forget to check in on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to let me know how you’re doing with the challenge! I have been seeing some great check in posts!

Melissa


Equipment: Gymboss Interval Timer set for 24 rounds of 10/20 second intervals. 

*Repeat each exercise 3X before moving onto the next exercise. 

1. Supergirl Pushups
2. Table Crunch
3. Dive Bomber
4. Down Dog Hop
5. Temple Tap Abs
6. Leg Circles (right)
7. Leg Circles (left)
8. Twisting Leg/Hip Lift

Supergirl Pushup: Extend Opposite arm and leg.
Return to Plank.
Push-up.
Repeat on the other side.  
Table Crunch: Keep the hips lifted and core tight.
Bring the Knee up and Tap with your hand.  
Table Crunch: Alternate Legs throughout the movement.
Focus on keeping the hips lifted and back flat. 
Dive Bomber: Starting in Down Dog position, bend the arms and lower your chest toward the floor.
Press forward through the chest into an up-dog position.
Bend the arms and lift the hips to return to starting position. 
Down Dog Hop: Starting in Plank draw your knee in toward the nose, while keeping the core tight.
Extend the leg back and up, while hopping on the standing leg.
Return to plank and repeat on the opposite side. 
Temple Tap Abs: Pull the core in tight.
Lift the legs, and shoulder blades off the floor while keeping the core tight.
Hands start at prayer position in the center of your chest.
Tap your elbow toward the top corner of your mat, alternating sides.  
Leg Circles: Lift the shoulder blades and legs, keeping the core tight.
Start with the right leg and make circles, while keeping the lower leg as still as possible.
The higher you lift the top leg the more challenging the movement becomes.
Do three sets on the right, before moving on to the left side. 
Twisting Leg/Hip Lift: Lift the shoulder blades and legs, keeping the core tight.
Lift your legs and hips off the floor, trying to press your feet toward the ceiling.
Keeping the core tight, lower your legs toward the left corner of the room.
Return to center, hip lift, and lower your legs toward the right corner of the room.
Try to keep you legs off the ground the entire time. 


30 Day: Sculpted Abs Challenge

Standard
Hi Everyone!
 
Welcome to the 30 Day Sculpted Abs Challenge! 
 
I will be posting new workouts and challenge moves through the month, but this is a great reference list to bookmark and use so you never miss a day. 
 
Below are 30 Different Core/Ab Focused Workouts. You can add any of these workouts to your normal routine or use them as your workout for the day. 
 
As always, listen to your body. Even through this challenge is focused on the core I will be incorporating full body workouts throughout the month. A strong core is the foundation of your strength. Take rest days as needed throughout the month, and focus on making healthy food choices. 
 
Don’t forget to have fun! You can check in with your progress during the challenge on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.  A strong core will make you more effective during all of your workouts!
Â