Forget sit-ups – you only need these three exercises for solid core strength

ActiveWorkoutsForget sit-ups – you only need these three exercises for solid core strengthNot one of them are done on your back and you just need a dumbbellWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

Not one of them are done on your back and you just need a dumbbell

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.

(Image credit: Getty)

man doing a kneeling overhead press

(Image credit: Getty)

Sit-ups aren’t for everyone; they require strong ab muscles to lift your upper torso off the floor and, even if you can do them, they’re not exactly the most ‘fun’ exercise in the world. Plus, did you know they’re actually not the most effective move when it comes to building up your core strength as they’re abdominal focused? If you’re looking to build your coreandabs then these three exercises are far better – all you’re going to need is a single dumbbell and 10 minutes. No dumbbell? Check out ourbest dumbbell guide.

The term ‘core’ and ‘abs’ can get used interchangeably, but the two are different. When we talk about ab exercises, we’re referring to workouts that target the abdominal muscles, known as the ‘six-pack muscles’. However, our core muscles include the abdominals, hips, pelvic floor, lower back and obliques. All these muscles improve our balance and stability and reduce the likelihood of injuries and lower back pain.

These three exercises are very beginner-friendly and ideal for adding onto the end of another workout as a finisher. Aim for 12 to 15 reps of each exercise and try and complete three to four rounds. Start off with light weight dumbbells. Having the correct form over how much weight you’re holding is really important here to make sure you’re doing each exercise correctly and engaging your core. Here’s your exercises:

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