With millions of people stranded inside of their homes all day, countless individuals are taking up home exercise routines for the first time. Despite the allure of working out from home, it’s actually quite easy to injure yourself doing so, which is why studying proper technique and investing in solid equipment is of the utmost importance if you want to get in shape without suffering from a tragedy. Mastering the inside secrets of core training can help you get the abs you’re looking for while avoiding any accidents which could set your physical progress back. 

Here’s a review of how to train your core while on lockdown, and what foods to eat to maintain a healthy lifestyle all the while. 

Learn to love the plank

When many people think of improving their core, they naturally go to sit-ups as the primary exercise that they should be depending upon. The only problem with sit-ups is that they can easily be done improperly, leading you to minor spine or back injuries that will have you sore for the next few days, thwarting your progress. Sit-up induced lower back pain is a very common problem amongst those who are exercising from home for the first time, so focusing on alternative core workouts like a good plank is a superior way to get in shape. 

First, get yourself a good exercise mat and lie on your stomach. Next, place your arms to your sides with your elbows directly under your shoulders, Next use your legs to raise your back half while contracting your core muscles so that you’re elevated off the floor. Finally, raise your torso and front half, keeping your firm form and your elbows in place. Be careful to avoid arching your back, as if it sags toward the ground  you’re not performing your core properly. Having a family member gauge whether your back is arched and helping you to keep it straight is sometimes necessary if you’re unfamiliar with planking.

While home workout equipment like some hanging ab straps by Armageddon Sports are helpful when it comes to occurring workout gains, exercises like the front plank and side plank take no equipment at all. This means they can be done in an easy and affordable fashion. If you nevertheless love to work out using equipment but don’t want to spend money on fancy gear, consider some DIY homemade gym ideas that will allow you to maximize your core gains with your own handiwork. Besides routine exercise, you should also study up on the food that you’ll want to be consuming to ensure that your core is getting in tip-top shape. 

Feed your core

There are certain foods and drinks you must avoid if you want to get a great set of abs. Sugary drinks like soda or milkshakes are absolutely going to reduce any and all gains you make in the exercise room. Fried food and booze are popular, too, but they will also ensure that you never see that six pack of abs you’re so desperately seeking. By focusing on eating other foods, you’ll do your body a favor. 

Eat plenty of nuts and seeds to get the fiber and protein your body needs to get itself into excellent shape. Additionally, try adding some legumes (like beans or peas) to your diet, and consider drinking green tea in the morning. Adding plenty of nutrient-dense fruits and veggies to your diet is also highly recommended when trying to maximize your exercise gains, but ensure that you don’t go overboard on too much fruit, which can often be sugary. Remember that everything must be enjoyed in moderation, and stick to your exercise routine, and soon you’ll emerge from lockdown with an impressive core.