Hey there everyone! Just wanted to wish you all a happy monday. Did you have a good weekend?
I know we usually start the week with a dose of motivation, but I thought I would mix things up a little. I feel like I haven’t shared many workout ideas lately, even though I love working out! So today it’s all training talk.
Since finishing the LiveFit program a few months ago, I’ve taken a more relaxed approach to my gym sessions. I still lift weights, but am enjoying a wider variety of activities such as going for walks, taking classes, and practicing Pilates. Pilates in particular is one of my favourite ways to workout. It is great for core strength as well as stress relief; a saving grace during hectic times in our lives!
I could go on and on about my love affair with Pilates! But I’ll spare you that rant and just share my top 3 moves instead.
The roll up
This exercise works the entire abdominal region so kicks butt over the standard crunch in my books
For a description of how to do the roll up click here.
The Hundred
One of my favourites! Get your heart pumping and abs burning
For a description of the hundred exercise click here (scroll half way down the page)
The Teaser
This exercise is no joke…it really targets the abs, and requires good posture.
This picture shows the full version of teaser, but there are many modifications to suit all fitness levels. Click here to read the descriptions.
If you haven’t tried out Pilates I urge you to give it a try. It will challenge your body, your mind, as well as sculpt some amazing abs. While we’re on the topic of abs, I’ll also mention Angela’s July No-Crunch Core Challenge. This lady puts together some amazing workouts that are super effective and leave you feeling energized (and more than a tad sore at times too!). During the month of July there will be 4 different workouts to try on her Fit Bit Friday, so head on over and check them out.
Here’s to an awesome week ahead!
-Sarah xo
Thanks so much for the link love Sarah!! I’ve been really enjoying the challenge this month and definitely feel stronger in my core, so I guess it’s working! I dabbled in a bit of Pilates last year but didn’t really feel a very strong connection with the instructor so I’m hoping to find another class at a convenient time and try again. I’ve heard all about the benefits so would love to give it another chance. As for yoga, I’ve recently been doing a little on my own at home before bed, and it’s amazing how much better I feel when I wake up in the morning! It has really helped to reduce that stiffness you sometimes feel when you get out of bed after a hard workout or run the day before. Have a great Monday!
I prefer pilates over yoga. I have so pretty awful joints and I like that I feel like I’m working “harder” for pilates. My attention span is pretty short too : ) Favorite ab exercise – russian twists or super slow sit ups / rotating sit ups on a ball!
i like the plank! i like yoga, but have never really given pilates a try…
You should try it madison! I think you would really enjoy it
I used to go to Pilates all the time before, but I hadn’t been consistent with it lately. After reading your post yesterday, I decided that today was going to be my Pilates day and woke up at 4:30am to go to the morning class at the gym! Was totally worth it
Good for you Asuma!!! Did you enjoy the class?
I did! I loved the feeling of morning sunlight shining on my body
Though I was super-cold during the entire class…can’t wait till the summer when I can attend more early morning classes.