15 minute Core Yoga Workout at Home

When we think about the core we often think about the abs and the obliques. The muscles responsible for the six pack and the “V” cut. This 15 minute core yoga workout is a class you can do at home, outdoors or in the gym.

This six pack abs routine is made to strengthen and tone the core blending movements from Pilates and yoga, creating a yogalates class. This class primarily targets the abs and obliques, with a stretch at the end. The exercises progress each set making it perfect for all levels, including beginners.

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15 minute Core Yoga Workout Exercises

After a short scan, and brief warm-up, we begin the workout with an abdominal crunch. An oldie, but a goodie. And it’s preparing us for the work ahead.

Progressing from the crunch, we’ll add some rotation. Alternating sides each repetition. Think more about the shoulder to the opposite hip, rather than elbow to knee.

Then we progress to tabletop position for bent leg tabletop drops. Firstly, this exercise is easy to do incorrectly, so check out my other post about this exercise. Secondly, the foot can touch the floor, or for more challenge float it.

For an advanced variation extend rather than bend the leg. This provides more core strength and requires more effort BUT ensure your lower back and pelvis remain stable and supported.

Scissors are a favorite exercise of mine and one that is straight from the pilates playbook. Extend the legs up, opening them 12″ apart. Then criss-cross the legs, like scissors. Hence the name. For more challenge drop the legs lower to the mat.

The workout is split into two sets. You have the option to perform the second set of crunches with the legs in a tabletop position. This adds more load to the abdominals to stabilize the trunk. Adding the rotation to this position is another option.

For the most advanced option you’ll combine the rotational crunch and tabletop drop (below). While rotating the left shoulder to the right hip, keep the right knee bent over the hip and extend the left leg.

The video explains all the exercises and you can follow along with me during the workout. Suitable for all levels this 15 minute Core Yoga workout is a great way to strengthen and tone the abs and obliques.

Questions

• Do you enjoy core workouts?
• What is your favorite core exercise?
• Is core strength important to you?