Core Strength For Dummies

Shape and condition your core muscles and get a lean, flexible body

Concerned about your core? This authoritative guide presents simple guidelines for strengthening your core muscles, providing a variety of safe, effective workouts that anyone can perform. Fitness expert LaReine Chabut gets you going with an easy–to–follow core training program, as well as tips for making healthier lifestyle choices to help you reach your fitness goals.

Learn the core basics discover the benefits of a strong core, evaluate your fitness level, and see how to reshape your muscles

You can work it out practice beginner core moves, choose the right amount of weight, and select the perfect number of sets and reps

Sculpt your trouble areas define your abs, tighten your glutes, and strengthen your back

Make the most of accessories incorporate an exercise ball, free weights, and machines into your routine

Shake up your routine try Pilates and yoga moves as well as fun, practical stretches to keep you strong and flexible

Make it a family affair get core moves for pregnant women, Mommy and Me moves, fun exercises for younger and older children, and recommendations for seniors

Open the book and find:

The best ways to train your core Tips for working out safely Guidelines for beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels How to warm up and cool down LaReine Chabut′s "Core Secrets" workout Dietary and lifestyle changes that improve core strength Motivation and support for sticking with your program A total body workout focusing on your core

Introduction.

Part I: Core Basics.

Chapter 1: Finding Your Core Strength.

Chapter 2: Reshaping Your Core.

Chapter 3: Getting Started: Your Core Guidelines.

Chapter 4: Things to Consider Before Taking the Core Challenge.

Part II: Core Workouts to Help Sculpt Your Trouble Areas.

Chapter 5: Getting Started with Beginner Core Exercises.

Chapter 6: Getting That Six–Pack: Abdominal Core Superset.

Chapter 7: Core Workout for a Better Butt.

Chapter 8: Putting It All Together.

Part III: Developing Core Strength Using Accessories.

Chapter 9: Challenging Your Core on the Ball.

Chapter 10: Adding Weights for Core Strength.

Part IV: Adding Variety to Your Core Routine.

Chapter 11: Pilates Core Program.

Chapter 12: Yoga Core.

Chapter 13: Working Your Core While Exercising Other Muscles.

Chapter 14: Core Stretches to Help Whittle Your Middle.

Part V: Special Situations.

Chapter 15: Pregnancy Moves for Your Core.

Chapter 16: New Mommy and Me Core Workout.

Chapter 17: Exercises For Kids to Help Build Core Strength.

Chapter 18: Seniors Taking the Core Challenge.

Part VI: The Part of Tens.

Chapter 19: Ten Best Ways to Train Your Core.

Chapter 20: Ten Core–Conscious Dietary Changes You Can Easily Make.

Chapter 21: Ten Household Items You Can Use to Help Improve Core Strength.

Chapter 22: Ten Favorite Moves.

Index.

LaReine Chabut is a fitness and lifestyle expert, model, and mom. She is a lead instructor for America′s #1 exercise video series, The Firm, as well as the author of Exercise Balls For Dummies and Stretching For Dummies. Chabut has appeared on the cover of such magazines as Shape and Health and has been seen on CNN, ABC, Extra, and Access Hollywood.