This 30 day core challenge uses the plank and mountain climber exercises to strengthen up your core stabilising muscles. In both exercises, the core muscles have to work hard to maintain the position of the body. With the plank, you just need to hold your body in a straight line. With mountain climbers, the core muscles keep the body stable as the legs come in and out. You’ll also be strengthening your arms and shoulders.
You can download a printable copy of the workout chart at the end of the post. Please read these safety guidelines before you do the workout. Also please note that these exercises involve holding muscles in a static contraction, which can cause an increase in blood pressure. The workout is therefore not advisable for anyone who suffers from high blood pressure.
30 day core challenge – the exercises
Plank
- Kneel on the floor
- Lean forwards and put your hands on the floor, making sure your shoulders are directly above your elbows
- Straighten one leg out behind you, with the toes on the floor
- Engage your core strongly and extend the other leg behind
- Your body should be making a straight line – if possible check in a mirror or ask someone else to check
- Now hold this position for the given time
- Then lower the knees to the floor and rest
Mountain climbers
- The starting position is similar to the plank above, but this time instead of straightening your body right out, leave your back slightly curved
- Now bring one knee at a time in towards your arms
- Do the given number of reps on each leg – so for example on day 1 you’ll do 10 reps in total.
Workout chart
The exercises alternate, so it’s plank one day, mountain climbers the next. Follow the reps/hold time on the chart. It’s a very short workout, but quite intense.
Download a printable of the challenge chart
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