GirlsGuideTo | Give Your Ab Routine a Boost…with Yoga

It’s starting to warm up outside and that means only one thing: it’s almost swimsuit season. If you’re anything like me, you see the cute suits and immediately start trying them all on…pasty winter skin and all. You have high hopes. And then you look in the mirror. Yes, the lighting sucks. The mirror is unflattering, too. But maybe you could use a little shape up like I know I do.

Not to worry, here are a few moves taken from yoga that will help you strengthen your core and flatten your tummy in time to rock that bikini this summer. Hold each pose for 5 to 10 counts. If your breath becomes tense, back off. Spend 3 to 5 breaths in each pose and work up to 10 counts and 3 reps in each pose.

The Boat
1. Sit with your knees bent, feet flat on the floor. Lightly grab your legs under your thighs, slightly above your knees.

2. Lean back slightly. Lift your feet off the floor so that your shins are parallel to the floor. Try to keep your legs together.

3. Extend your arms straight out in front of your at shoulder height, with palms facing up.

4. Straighten and raise your legs toward the ceiling until your body forms a V shape.

Rocking Push Up
1. Begin in plank (the top of a push up.)

2. Draw your right knee up, bringing your kneecap toward your nose.

3. Point the toes of your right foot, and squeeze your raised right leg into your body.

4. Repeat on the opposite side.

Reverse Plank
1. Begin seated with your legs straight out in front of you and your hands on the floor at your side.

2. Press down into your hands. Lift your legs and hips off the floor.

3. Bring the soles of your feet toward the floor so your ankles, hips, and shoulders make a straight, diagonal line.

4. Allow your head to drop back slightly so your chin points toward the ceiling.