When it comes to training your abs, yoga can be an incredibly beneficial form of exercise.
That’s why we consulted with a 63-year-old yoga instructor who breaks down her top sevenyoga exercisesfor stronger abs.
These moves are ideal for individuals of all ages, especially those who are looking to develop core strength.
Photo: Shutterstock. Design: Eat This, Not That!
“The development of core strength is key.
The core is no exception.”
Engaging in a yoga practice activates the core through movement, breathwork, and stillness.
Shutterstock
Now, let’s dive into the best yoga exercises for stronger abs, according to Schnoebelen.
Begin in a tabletop position and kick both feet back.
Elongate your spine by reaching forward with the crown of your head and back through both heels.
Shutterstock
“Energetically pull your palms toward your toes to increase core sensation.”
Side Plank
The side plank is a stellar exercise for boosting your side core strength.
Assume a forearm plank and rotate your body to one side.
Shutterstock
Ensure your shoulders are over your elbows.
“Pull your pubic bone toward your belly button for a neutral pelvis.
Hug your glutes into your sitting bones to activate the back of your core,” says Schnoebelen.
Shutterstock
11 Best Ab Exercises for Beginners
Boat Pose
The boat pose is a fun challenge.
Start in a seated position.
Bend both knees and lift your feet off the floor.
Shutterstock
Extend your arms ahead of you or bring them to your heart’s center.
Press your sit bones into the floor and elongate your spine.
Engage your abs as you strengthen your legs.
Shutterstock
Begin in a forearm tabletop position.
Position your elbows under your shoulders.
Press your palms into the floor or clasp them together.
Shutterstock
Lift your knees off the ground and engage your core.
Begin classic chair pose by assuming mountain pose.
“Pull your pubic bone up and your tailbone down and find a neutral pelvis.
Pull your belly in and up and squeeze the spaces between your ribs.”
It’s usually performed from three-legged dog to low lunge.
When starting from three-legged dog, breathe in and reach back through the heel.
“Bend your knee and pull it toward your nose,” Schnoebelen explains.
“Energize as you exhale and tighten your belly and ribs.
Use your core strength to shift forward until your shoulders are over your wrists.
Press the earth away with your palms and energize your upper back.”
“Activate your glutes and lift your thighs off the mat any amount.”