Building Base Core Strength

[mmis29]

Hi Cathe,

I bought your ab hits DVD, and some of the segments are just REALLY tough, especially the planks and non-traditional work. I can pump out what seems like billions of crunches & twists, but I don't seem to have enough core strength to be able to perform these newer routines. Is there a certain segment, DVD, or series that you would recommend for building up weaker abs? I want to buy Boot Camp but I'm pretty sure I can't handle the ab segments in it

Thanks!!

 

[kathryn]

If you have ab hits, you already have much of Cathe's ab work, pre -Intensity series. After that, there is even more core work.

Try modifying some of the planks. Start on your elbows and knees, then lift your knees up so you are on toes and hold as long as you can(if you concentrate, you can stay up longer than you think, just don't let the back arch or round), thinking about tightening an imaginary corset around your core. Then go to lifting one leg behind you (other leg still on knees). Try to add a little more time on the toes each time you do it. You may start out with just a few seconds on the toes, but don't be discouraged. You'll get better! And some day, you'll be able to do the "on-the-toes" version and lift one leg!

 

[clareMc]

Go ahead and get the Bootcamp workout. For two reasons:

--only by repeatedly doing the exercises will you master them and build the core strength you desire (never put off attempting something because you can't "do it " yet)
--the core segments last one minute only and come only one excerise per cycle so you have time to rest in between them, which can help

Clare

 

[mmis29]

Thank you so much for the encouraging words. You're right Clare, if I don't try it, I won't be able to do it!