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Shape Up Snapshots: Floor Plank

By Laurie Streff, Exercise Specialist

April 05, 2010 - 5:00PM

Try this exercise that you can do anywhere to strengthen the power-house of your body, your core. Core exercises are essential for maintaining good posture and spinal integrity. Start with performing 3 planks a day, 4-5 times a week, for 10 seconds at a time. Progress gradually so that you are able to hold your planks for up to 30 seconds. You may also add a balance challenge while performing your planks by lifting one leg off the floor at a time.

Shape Up Snapshots: Bridge

By Laurie Streff, Exercise Specialist

August 10, 2010 - 3:19PM

Add this easy-to-do-anywhere stabilization exercise to your core routine, and you'll quickly feel the benefits, especially in the low back and hips. The bridge targets and strengthens the important deep tissue muscles that enhance your spinal alignment and lumbar region. These muscles are especially important when bending forward and when lifting. Start by performing the bridge 3 - 5 times, for 2 - 3 sets, holding each bridge for a count of 5.

Getting to the Core of the Matter

By Michael Brazeal, M.A., Director of Fitness

April 05, 2011 - 4:00PM

The latest buzz in the fitness industry is core training, or spinal stabilization. Despite this recent gain in recognition, very few people understand what the core really is or how to properly and effectively train it. Loosely defined, the core is described as the body minus the extremities (arms and legs), and is made up of several different muscle groups which can be divided into two parts: the outer core and the inner core.