Core Concentration

Are you looking for

a tighter mid-section, leaner muscles, and

a healthier back?

Then, GO DEEP! Core training, especially traditional Pilates moves, allow you to work your abdominals on a very deep level - and while some of the moves can look deceptively simple, when they are performed properly, they deliver amazing results.

The key is to think of your abs as your stabilizer - so, as you're moving your arms and legs like levers, your core is deeply engaged. Imagine lying on a beautiful new rug, with a glass of red wine balanced on your stomach - in order not to spill that glass, you have to keep those abs as tight and still as possible. Want to put it to the test? Here are a couple of my favorite summer slimdown moves that get to the "core" of the matter:

1) Double Leg Ab Lift with Ball: Place the core ball between ankles, lie on your back, arms stretched above your head, and legs pointed up toward the ceiling. Squeeze the ball between your ankles, keeping your back flat on the floor and slowly lower your legs down toward the floor a few inches. As you get stronger, take them down to a 45-degree angle. (If you're super-advanced, you can try lowering to the floor.) The key is to never sacrifice form, this will prevent the back from arching. Return to the start position and repeat.

2) Cancan with Ball: Lie on back holding core ball overhead, legs straight and feet together. Engage abdominal muscles as you lift your upper body, reaching upward and kick one leg up, meeting the ball. Hold for 2 seconds, then lower the leg, torso, shoulders, head and arms and alternate legs. (For an easy, gentler move, you can modify by bending the knees.)