by Answer is Fitness on March 2, 2010
Core exercises refer to those exercises that target the abdominal and lower back muscle groups. You will also find that including some exercise for the glutes (butt) will help, too, as these areas function together as your core.
Pilates classes or exercises specialize in the core group, but some traditional strength exercises like crunches, lunges, and back extensions also are effective. You can and should work these areas every other day. As always with any exercise program you should start slowly. Maybe do one set of crunches, an exercise for the oblique abs, an easy back extension, and set of lunges. If you are out of shape or beginning rehab due to surgery contact a fitness professional at Answer is Fitness to get proper guidance and direction.
As you progress you should increase degree of difficulty (resistance, reps, etc) slowly. However If you're already in good shape, start at an appropriate level. Remember, you will not see abdominal definition unless you have a low percentage of body fat, which requires a good nutrition or diet program. However, it's important to have strong abs anyway as they impact back health, posture, stability, etc.
