May Core Strengthening Challenge

I'm in.

How does a Core challenge work?

I have no idea... I suppose it could happen any way we want it to...

Maybe we could set some kind of goal for doing certain exercises a certain number of times in the month?

Really, I have no clue.   I just know I need to do that. 

The only thing I can really think of right now is to set a goal of doing a certain number of core training workouts a week for the entire month.

My main goal is to establish a routine.  I have a ball and I have the little pictoral guide, but...

Here's the thread for the core challenge run last fall, for those interested in how it went last time.

http://www.beginnertriathlete.com/discussion/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=24701&start=1

Happy reading (6 pages worth)

Thanks for that, StarGazer.

That certainly helps me figure out how I want to challenge myself for the coming month.  I found this really helpful page with explanation of different exercises and levels, with tips on how to start a core training routine.

http://umanitoba.fitdv.com/new/articles/article.html?artid=128

I think, since I haven't done ANY core training EVER, my first week's goal will be to attempt to do the "Easy Core Exercises" with one set of 10 each (hopefully, that will be as easy as it sounds, but I have a feeling it won't be), 2x a week.

I don't know if folks want to do "team" things.  I was more interested in just making a commitment and having folks keep me honest.

So, for the first week of May, my goal is to do
1 set with 10 reps of each:

Crunch
Twisting crunch
1/4 situp
Cable crunch
Six-inch leg raise
Torso twists
Side raises
Back extensions
RDLs

Alright!  I guess this is my first week plan.  I will increase by 10% each week as well.

3 X 12 crunches on swiss ball

3 X 12 - both L and R obliques- swiss ball

3 X 12 back extensions-swiss ball

3X12 leg lifts

2 X 30 sec - front, left, right plank

If anyone has any suggestions please send them my way.  Did anyone take a picture of their abs )as it said in the last core challenge)?  I've got a six pack in there, but unfortunately it's being kept in a cooler.  I guess that's the point of the photo op!

Happy Core Training for the first week!  GO hardCORE BT'ers!!

Oh Darn!  I don't have a digital camera!  You'll just have to imagine my abs -- it's not too hard to do... just think of some uncooked bread dough. 

I'm in for this challenge.  I need something to get me back into my core workout....

Here's my plan 2x per week

50 crunches feet up
50 crunches feet on floor
25 bicycle crunches each side
25 full body crunches

These are now on my training schedule for Wednesday and Saturday.