HEALTH

Since sculpting is about muscle control rather than momentum, you want to do these moves as slowly as you can. Begin each sesh with a 5-minute warm-up, like walking or jogging in place. When your finished, stretch your bod out to give your muscles some relief.

Want flat abs? Try this move...

The Plank

Start by positioning yourself with your hands and knees on the floor. Drop your hips and walk your hands forward so that your knees, hips, head and shoulders form a diagonal line. Make sure your butt neither sinks nor pikes up too high. Flatten your lower abs by pulling in your bellybutton, but avoid pulling in so much that your spine curves. Hold this flattened contraction for 60 seconds before moving on to the final step.

Finish by keeping the lower abs tight to stabilize your pelvis and spine. Slowly life your right knee up, then your left knee, and straighten both legs behind you. You should be propped up on your toes and hands, with your body forming a diagonal line from head to heels. Keep your torso stable, and continue pulling your belly button in while breathing normally. Hold for 15 seconds, working your way up to 2 minutes over a period of several weeks (add 5 to 10 more seconds each time).

by Martica Heaner | 2/1/2016