Here’s one of my favourite core exercises.
Not only do you get a nice hip flexor stretch (who all can benefit from!), but you also train better lumbopelvic control and synergy between the glutes and abdominals.
Here’s how to do it:
Kneel perpendicular to an adjustable cable machine with your inside knee down. Place your front foot flat on the ground and make sure to dig your big toe of your rear foot into the ground. Brace your abs and push your entire body forward until you feel a nice stretch in front of your thigh (inside leg). Squeeze your butt to lock in the position. Your front knee should only move as far as your shoe laces, so move your front foot forward if you need to.
Grab the cable attachment and hold it against your stomach. Stay tall and tight and take in a breath. Slowly exhale as you press the handle away from you. Lock your elbows and hold this pose for a few seconds. Don’t move your body and don’t lose the stretch in front of your thigh. Slowly return the handle to your stomach. Inhale again and prepare for the next repetition.
If you’re new to this, don’t choose a weight that’s too heavy. Aim to perfect the mechanics of the exercise before adding weight. Using pin 30-40 should be enough to start. Shoot for 12-15 reps per side and perform 2-3 sets.
Notice the difference in how this exercise challenges your abdominal control vs a traditional plank exercise.
There’s nothing wrong with a basic plank, but you need to add exercises that challenge your abdominals in a different manner.
Good luck!
