Hard CORE : Lower Ab Attack

You know that muffin top area?? This one blasts the muscles in that area! You know what though? It doesn't blast the fat. So, DO THIS to strengthen your lower abdominals. DO THIS to create definition in that area for when you do blast the fat away. But don't expect doing this exercise - alone - to make your lower belly look exactly the way you imagine. You gotta keep it intense in the gym and really watch what you consume in order to make these muscles more visible.

With that said, this is super important to do no matter what because is trains your core to better stabilize your lower spine, and since many of us experience lower back pain, this needs to be an area we focus on often.

Try 8-12 reps for 3-4 sets. I love adding this to a circuit so I can target every area of my core!

Notes on form:
- Knees over hips. Not over belly button, not over chest.
- Knees in 90 degree angles. Shins parallel to floor.
- Lower spine is constantly pressing down into floor through entire movement.
- Angle of knees never changes through entire movement.
- Squeeze your glutes super tight to support your lower back as your legs lower and lift.
- Only lower your legs as far as you can without your back arching. If you don't touch the floor that's OK!!

How many reps did you get your first time trying?! Tell me on IG/TW: @cassiebstrong!

B Strong,

Cassie B.

Hard CORE: TRX Low Plank Hip Abduction + Knee Tuck

The TRX is my absolute FAVORITE tool for working my core. Take any plank exercise, incorporate the TRX, and you've got yourself an incredibly challenging workout with unbelievable results.

This movement is the exact reverse exercise of yesterday's Hump Day Booty Move: the TRX Hip & Booty Blast. Flip yourself over into a low plank for today's Hip Abduction to a Knee Tuck and you'll keep your body balanced and strong - while working your glutes and core like crazy!

Notes on form:
- Lock out your knees.
- Press your shoe laces firmly down into the strap.
- Use your abdominals to pull your hips up to shoulder level and keep them there.
- Only open your feet as far apart as you can without turning your knees outward or letting them bend.
- Lift your hips upward as you pull your knees into your chest.
- Keep your hips at shoulder level as you extend your feet back to your starting position.

Perform for intervals of 30-60 seconds or 10-15 reps for 3-4 sets.

Share when and how you incorporate these movements into your next workout on Instagram/Twitter @cassiebstrong #BStrong!

B Strong,

Cassie B.