I need some good standing core exercises for my cardio-kick class?
I have a strength section in the routine as of right now I am building my business and can’t buy equipment. I know of plenty of floor exercises for the core but I really don’t want to get on the floor during the class. I have mostly pretty fit people coming to my class right now so something that is able to be modified for less fit individuals but challenging for my fellow advanced pole fitness students would be great or even a free place to find videos that will help me find a few good exercises. Thanks!
Hi Carrie,
I teach cardio kickboxing, and the whole class is wonderful for the core! (You can always remind the class of this as they punching and kicking). Here are a few standing exercises:
1. Hands behind head, and alternate elbow to opposite knee. Alternate for desired reps and repeat on other side. Progression—Squat first with hands behind head, then as you come up, alternate elbow to knee. You should really feel the difference in your core with hands behind the head.
2. Hands behind the head while doing jumping jacks. Again, activates the core even more (cue class to contract abs) Progression, hands behind the head and get a little lower with bent knee jacks. This activates the core as well as hips.
3. Standing, and weight shifted to left side. Right elbow to right knee (right knee is slightly out to the side, not forward). Kind of like a standing side crunch. Repeat for desired reps and repeat on other side.
4. You could even do reverse lunges, and then take arms straight up over head and continue lunges. The core is activated more this way and participants should feel the difference.
Hope some of these suggestions help. Feel free to contact me at [email protected]
if you need any clarification on these.
Have fun–kickboxing is such a great workout!
Christine