Core Workout Exercises for Brides: Six Quick Tips
A strong core, courtesy of these exercises, can help you look your best when you walk down the aisle.
If you’re a busy bride, planning your wedding can be time consuming, but you still want to look your best when you walk down the aisle. If you’re looking for a quick way to trim your waist before your wedding, here are six tips for quick pre-wedding core workout exercises:
- Cardiovascular Workouts. Manyfitness experts agree that any workout should have a cardiovascular component. In addition to reducing belly fat, cardiovascular workouts also improve circulation and can help reduce wedding stress. Jogging, brisk walking and swimming are some effective cardiovascular exercises, which, when combined with the following core exercises can help you get into great shape for your big day.
- Abdominal Crunches. Since the muscles of the abdomen are the primary target of core exercises, abdominal crunches are very efficient to trim your core. You should start slowly so that your body has time to adapt to these and any other exercises that you add to your workout. Start with 20 repetitions of abdominal crunches and increase the number from there as you gain strength.
- Bicycle Crunch. The bicycle crunch is one of the most effective exercises for a slimmer tummy and revealing those six-pack abs. Bicycle abdominal exercises targets the muscles of the abdominal girdle. This workout is easy to do and requires no equipment. Simply lay flat on your back with your low back pressed to the floor and slowly alternate bringing your opposite elbow to your opposite knee. Again, start slowly and add reps as you progress.
- Side Bends. To do this exercise, stand straight then slowly bend to one side and then the other. Avoid this move if you have any back trouble and start with 10 repetitions on either side.
- The Plank. The plank is a highly recommended element in any good abdominal workout. By doing the plank on a regular basis, your core muscles will be able to maintain intense contractions, plus your posture will improve. To do a plank, prop yourself up on your toes and your elbows, hold your core muscles tight and hold for 30-60 seconds.
- V-ups. This exercise works the entire tummy and is often referred to as the “six- pack”. To do it, fold your legs and upper body into a V-shape, engaging all of your ab muscles. The V-up workout is a total core working movement. It is also known as the pike crunch or jackknife. This move challenges your core, abs, back, and flexibility.
Complement your pre-wedding core workout with proper nutrition. In addition to the six exercise tips above, don’t forget that avoiding fatty foods and adopting a diet full of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and lean protein will also help you achieve a trim core for your wedding. We also advise checking in with your physician before you start this, or any other exercise program.
