When you're working out, getting to the core of the matter doesn't always mean being static. Yes, holding an elbow plank will work your core, but to really fire it up, take those elbow planks for a walk. The challenge of moving your body forward and backward, as well as side to side, works your abs, back, and arms nicely. Plus it is more functional, meaning when you add motion to your planks, the movement pattern translates more closely to moves you do in your regular life. Strength training this way also helps prevent injuries. I learned this move at the Nike Women's Media Summit, and I really felt it in my abs. I may never do another sit-up again. Only kidding! But try it out and you'll see what I mean.

To see how to walk your plank, just read more

When it comes to taking care of yourself, you have no problem eating healthy and watching your calorie intake. That part is easy. It's the exercise part you have a problem with. You just hate it. Maybe you can't stand going to the gym, or working out in public. Maybe you hate running outside or on the treadmill because you can't breathe or it hurts your knee. Maybe you don't know how to use weight machines or dumbbells. Maybe you just don't like your exercise outfits, or maybe you just never liked exercise, period.

You're not alone. If you hate working out, then you probably haven't found the type of exercise that's right for you. There are millions of ways to move your body, and you've got to find one that speaks to you. It has to be fun, affordable, and cause no discomfort. It must also be convenient so you're more likely to stick with it, and it has to be effective so you see results. Here are some exercise ideas:

If you don't like exercising alone: Take fitness classes at a gym such as spinning, sign up for a group lesson with a trainer at your gym, or join a dodgeball team.

If you hate the gym and love the outdoors: Go for a hike up a steep mountain, hit some bike trails, or play Ultimate Frisbee.

If you think exercise is boring: Sign up for a hula hooping class, watch a movie on your iPod while using a cardio machine, or jump into a Circus Arts workshop.

To see the other ideas read more

One of the most common things women have a hard time doing is completely loving their bodies. Try and let that go and do your best to stop focusing on your own negative body image issues today for National Love Your Body Day. The driving force behind such a fabulous day is the National Organization for Women Foundation (a.k.a. NOW), which encourages all women to:

Make a pact with yourself to treat your body with respect, and do things to promote positive body image. For example, try a new physical activity just for fun, not to lose weight. Stop weighing yourself, and change your goal from weight loss to improving your health.

So let's work on loving our bodies today and every day that follows. I've grown to love my body because of the amazing things it does and in turn, lets me do. From creating my two healthy daughters to taking me through my first triathlon, I've truly come to appreciate my body for its inherent intelligence and never-ending strength. Why do you love your body? Share the love in the comments section below.

Source

"Don't just do something new once and give up. Give yourself eight tries . . . then if you absolutely hate it, move on to something else."

— Gabby Reece in Shape magazine

Need a little more motivation to try something new, like a side elbow plank? Then check out all my Words That Move You.

Source