The next Pilates ab exercise, an elbow plank variation, challenges both your balance and core strength. While you're lifting your leg, "the rest of the body remains absolutely still, and that is where the majority of the [core] work is — in stability," says Julie Erickson, a certified Pilates teacher at Endurance Pilates.
- Start in an elbow plank.
- Lift your right foot about six inches off the ground, keeping your pelvis parallel to the floor. Avoid arching your lower back to lift your leg. Hold this position.
- Keeping your body straight and aligned, shift backward from your wrists and your left ankle joints. Shift forward again, and set your right foot down.
- Repeat the lift and shift with your right leg. That's one rep.
