As you age, taking the good with the bad is essential.

According toMedlinePlus, your muscle tissue begins to break down as early as age 30.

But don’t let that dampen your spirits.

fit woman doing core-strengthening exercises with medicine ball at the beach

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Having a solid core benefits your overall health in several ways.

Read on for Meier’s top four core-strengthening exercises after 40.

And, when you’re through, check outThe #1 Strength Workout to Reshape Your Body After 40.

illustration of how to do the bird dog exercise

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Bird Dogs

This low-impact core exercise offers other benefits besides strengthening your core.

According toHealthline, bird dogs can help reduce lower back pain and increase stability.

“Bring your arm and leg back toward the center and touch your right elbow to your left knee.

illustration of how to do the russian twist core-strengthening exercise

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Alternate sides with each rep.”

Aim to do three rounds of 15 to 20 reps per side.

Next, lean back slightly, keeping your shoulder back and spine neutral.

Next, lift your legs off the floor, keeping your knees bent.

illustration of how to do glute bridge core-strengthening exercises

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Glute Bridge

The glute bridge is an ultra-effective core-strengthening exercise.

Plus, it can help lift your butt by sculpting your glutes.

In addition, glute bridges can boost stability and enhance your form when doing other activities, according toWebMD.

illustration of forearm plank

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“For a standard bridge, lie on your back on a mat.

Engage your core and glutes to raise your hips while keeping your hands at your sides on the mat.

Perform three rounds of 15 to 20 reps. Next, step your feet back until your body forms a straight line from shoulders to ankles.

Next, lower down onto your elbows and keep your body aligned.

Aim for three rounds of 30 to 60-second holds.