Most no equipment workouts focus on the major muscle groups, but what about core and abs? What are the best equipment-free fitness exercises for building a strong core? I want to incorporate effective ab work into my home exercise circuits without needing any gear. Looking for more than just crunches and planks.
For equipment-free fitness core work, I love hollow body holds and rocks. They engage the entire anterior chain. Also, leg lowers (single or double), dead bugs, and bird dogs. These are more effective than crunches for building functional core strength. I incorporate them into my home exercise circuits as active rest between other exercises.
Plank variations are my go-to for core. Side planks, plank with leg lifts, plank with arm reaches, plank to downward dog. These no equipment workouts for core are deceptively hard. I also like incorporating core engagement into other exercises - like consciously bracing during push-ups and squats. This turns every exercise into a core exercise.
Don't forget rotational core work! Russian twists (with or without weight), woodchoppers using a towel, and standing oblique crunches. These are important for functional strength and often neglected in bodyweight workout plans. I include them in my home upper body workout days since they complement pushing and pulling movements well.