Tone Your Entire Body With the Plank


Updated 06/20/11 1:50 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

8 Plank Variation Exercises

The plank is one of my favorite multitasking moves because it works your abs, your arms, and your back all at once. If you vary the basic plank, you'll have a whole slew of different exercises to target every inch of your body. Here are eight variations to bring about a stronger, more toned you. Source: Thinkstock Read more

Core Work: Twisted BOSU Plank


Updated 02/24/11 8:15 PM · Posted by · 0 comments

Twisted Plank on BOSU Ball

No matter how you slice it or dice it, the BOSU makes everything harder — and I mean that in a good way. Take your basic plank, add the BOSU into the equation and your core is working overtime. Here's a progression of plank exercises for this devilish piece of equipment that I learned from my Equinox trainer Lauren. Basic Plank: You start in a basic plank with the ball side of the BOSU facing Read more

4 Reasons to Ditch Crunches


Updated 01/19/11 11:12 AM · Posted by Self · 0 comments

Why Crunches Don't Work Your Abs

We are pumped to share one of our fave stories from Self here on FitSugar! Although most of the country is in a deep freeze, it's getting to be that time of year when we all freak out about getting in shape for summer. Always first to mind: our bloated-from-holiday-fun belly. We're constantly receiving mixed intel about how to workout our abs. So, we were psyched to pick up a copy of a new book Read more

Maximize Your Workout: Get Kirsched! in a New York Minute


Updated 10/18/10 11:27 AM · Posted by Guest Writer · 0 comments

Arms and Abs Circuit From Celeb Trainer David Kirsch

The following post was written by New York-based trainer David Kirsch. It’s Autumn in Manhattan, and the days are growing shorter by the minute. Although time is always of the essence for a busy New Yorker, you know you're in for a serious time crunch when even the New York minute seems to lose a few seconds. Down in the dumps because you don't have enough time to exercise? Stop the clock, and Read more

How to Get a Celebrity Workout at Home — Tips From The Hills' Personal Trainer


Updated 09/01/11 1:15 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 0 comments

How to Get a Celebrity Workout at Home — Tips From The Hills’ Personal Trainer

When Lauren Conrad and the rest of The Hills cast want to get in top shape, they turn to celebrity fitness trainer Jarett del Bene. Watch our video to find out the celebrity workout plan he recommends to clients, as well as how to do two of his signature moves — "The Plank" for hot abs, and "The Squat and Press" for an allover body workout. Read more

Get on the Ball: Circling Plank


Updated 11/11/09 5:09 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 0 comments

Lower Ab Exercise Using an Exercise Ball

Plank is one of my favorite exercises because it really targets your upper body and core. Plus there are so many challenging variations such as plank jumping jacks and walking elbow plank, so you mix up your routine and never get bored. Here's another variation that will really work your lower abs, so grab an exercise ball and give it a try. Read more

Assess Your Ab Work


Updated 10/05/09 11:19 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 4 comments

The Best and Safest Ways to Work Your Abs

Countless crunches and multiple sets of Russian twists might tone your abs, but they're not so great for your back. Not only that, but they aren't functional movement, meaning the strength gained in these exercises won't really help you outside the gym. Repeatedly rounding the spine in a crunch or full sit-up sets the stage for a disk injury. Repeatedly twisting, especially if your abs are weak, Read more

No Equipment Necessary: Running Plank


Updated 06/10/09 7:55 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 7 comments

Video on How to Do Running Plank

If you're looking for a way to burn calories while toning your upper body, core, and calves, have I got the exercise for you. This is a variation of plank that you can do anywhere. "Back Back Back," by Ani Difranco If you'd like more detailed instructions, read more Read more

Squats vs. Elbow Planks


Updated 04/20/09 4:09 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 24 comments

Squats vs. Elbow Planks

We all have exercises we love and exercises we work hard to avoid. I have heard complaints about both squats and elbow planks. These two exercises are workout staples for me, and I must admit I love them both. In the battle for your heart, which exercise do you love more? Squats vs. Elbow Planks Squats Elbow planks I love them both. I hate them both. Read more

My Spring Equinox Fitness Challenge


Updated 03/31/09 8:33 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 1 comment

My Spring Equinox Fitness Challenge

Week one of my Spring Equinox fitness challenge left me sore in all the right places. Both my sessions last week began with three circuits each containing two exercises, with each circuit repeated three times. Having a skilled eye watch me perform pec flies while reclined on an exercise ball is really helpful and I am learning how I like to cheat. My trainer keeps me honest and moving. I have Read more