Want to build a strong core and tone your abs?
No equipment needed—just dedication and the right technique!
The Ultimate Core Workout to Strengthen and Tone Your Abs
A strong core is the foundation of overall fitness, improving posture, balance, and strength while helping you achieve a toned, flat stomach. If you’re looking for an effective home workout that targets your abs, obliques, and lower back, this routine is exactly what you need.
These exercises require no equipment, making them perfect for anyone looking to get fit without a gym membership. Perform each movement with proper form to maximise results and avoid injuries.
Core-Strengthening Exercises You Can Do Anywhere
1. Side-to-Side Heel Touches
This exercise targets your obliques, helping define your waistline.
- Lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat.
- Lift your chest slightly and reach for your right heel with your right hand.
- Repeat on the left side, alternating touches.
- Tip: Move slowly and engage your core throughout.
2. Scissor Kicks
Perfect for targeting lower abs and reducing belly fat.
- Place hands under your glutes for support.
- Extend your legs and lift them slightly off the ground.
- Cross your feet over each other or kick them up and down.
- Tip: Keep your core tight to avoid straining your lower back.
3. Straight Leg Raises
Strengthens both your abs and lower back.
- Lie flat, legs straight, and hands at your sides.
- Lift both legs until they form an “L” shape with your body.
- Lower slowly without touching the ground.
- Tip: Keep your back flat on the floor to prevent strain.
4. Up-and-Down Plank
A full-core workout that builds endurance.
- Start in a plank position.
- Lower one arm at a time into a forearm plank.
- Push back up to a high plank position.
- Tip: Keep your back straight and avoid arching.
5. V-Ups
An advanced move for overall core strength.
- Lie down with arms and legs extended.
- Lift both your upper body and legs together, reaching for your feet.
- Lower back down with control.
- Tip: If it’s too difficult, start with bent knees.
6. Windshield Wipers
Great for working your obliques and improving mobility.
- Lie on your back and lift your legs to an “L” position.
- Rotate your legs to one side without touching the floor.
- Bring them back up and rotate to the other side.
- Tip: Bend your knees if you’re a beginner.
7. Bicycle Crunches
One of the best exercises for total core activation.
- Lie on your back with hands behind your head.
- Bring your right elbow to your left knee while extending your right leg.
- Switch sides in a pedalling motion.
- Tip: Don’t rush—controlled movement is key.
8. Side Leg Lifts
Targets obliques and improves hip stability.
- Lie on your side with legs stacked.
- Lift your legs together and hold for a few seconds.
- Lower slowly and switch sides.
- Tip: Engage your core for better control.
9. Plank Hip Dips
Tones the waistline while strengthening the core.
- Get into a forearm plank.
- Rotate your hips to one side, dipping slightly.
- Repeat on the other side.
- Tip: Keep legs stable and avoid excessive movement.
10. Side Plank Hold
Excellent for balance and core endurance.
- Rest on one forearm with legs stacked.
- Lift your hips and hold for a few seconds.
- Switch sides.
- Tip: Keep your body in a straight line—no sagging!
Cool Down Stretches to Avoid Soreness
1. Snake Stretch
- Lie face down with hands in a push-up position.
- Extend your arms to stretch your abs.
- Hold for 30 seconds.
2. Cat Stretch
- Get on all fours and arch your back upwards.
- Hold for 10 seconds, then relax.
Pro Tips for Better Results
Do Cardio Before Your Workout – High-intensity exercises like jumping jacks or mountain climbers will help burn excess fat.
Eat Enough Protein – It helps in muscle repair and supports weight loss.
Drink More Water – It boosts metabolism and reduces cravings.
Avoid Processed Foods – Stick to whole foods to fuel your body properly.Increase Your Fibre Intake – Foods like oatmeal keep you full longer and support digestion.
