5 Trainer-approved Upper Ab Workouts for a Strong Core | Article “OGC”

Both Lampa and Robles said the hollow body hold is one of the most important upper ab exercises. It’s essentially an upside-down plank, Lampa said. Robles added that this particular upper ab move works all the muscles in the abs, which helps improve core stability.

To do the hollow body hold, Robles instructed lying flat on your back, keeping your legs extended, feet together, and your arms over your head. Next, Lampa said, focus on pressing your spine into the ground while you lift your head, neck, shoulders, and legs off the ground. Your arms will remain extended over your head with your biceps by your ears.

While you do this, ensure only your lower back is in contact with the ground, Robles added. Hold the position for three sets of 20-30 seconds each, and remember to breathe through it.

If you start to feel it in your lower back or hip flexors, Robles said that’s a sign that the exercise may be too advanced for you. In this case, Lampa advised doing the modified version by bending your knees into a tabletop position, which helps relieve any tension from those areas.

Words by Jessica Estrada