Move of the Month: Seated Oblique Twists

It's Family Day in Ontario.  A day off and we couldn't have wished for better weather.  A little bit cool and full of sunshine.  I managed to get out an enjoy it with an afternoon run.  It was glorious.

I am going to round out my workout today with some core exercises and you know I will be including this one in the mix.  Seated oblique twists are a great exercise to help you work on balance, lower back and abdominals muscles.

Remember to check with your doc before you start any exercise program and think about:

• Engaging your pelvic floor muscles (Kegels).
• Making the exercise more challenging by holding a medicine ball or hand weight.
• Making the exercise easier by keeping your feet on the floor.

Seated Oblique Twists

1. Begin seated on a mat.  Lift your knees up with your shins parellel to the floor.
2. Lean your upper body back until your feel your abdominals engage.  Try not to round your shoulders forward to maintain a neutral spine.
3. Inhale and as you exhale drop your left elbow down to touch the floor (pictured) or as close to the floor as your are comfortable.
4. Inhale to return to centre and as you exhale, repeat the elbow drop on the right side.
5. Repeat 10 times on each side for 2-3 sets.

How often do you work your abdominal muscles?
For me, it is 3-4 times a week. I also try to focus on working these muscles while I am doing other exercises like weight lifting, yoga and running.

Stay Healthy,
Tracy