Not a fan of crunches [1]? Try these three variations of the core-sculpting Boat Pose [2] that are so effective, you'll only be able to do them for a few reps. You'll feel the intense burn while you're holding them, which means you know they're working (and will burn for days to come!). Try to do all three of these poses in a row. Add this into your home yoga practice or your post-workout ab routine [3].
Lifted Wide Straddle
- Prepare for this core-busting move by first balancing on the sitting bones. Hold onto your big toes and spread the legs into a wide straddle with the legs straight. If this is too difficult, hold the outer thighs, or bend the knees.
- This position helps you elongate the spine and engage the core.
- Hold for five breaths.
Wide Boat
- From Lifted Wide Straddle, release your feet and hold them out wide as you extend your hands in front of you.
- Keep lifting through the chest, holding for five breaths.
Boat
- From Wide Boat, inhale to bring your arms to the outside of the knees and draw the legs together.
- Hold this position for five breaths.
- Repeat all three poses four more times.