I usually spend about 45 minutes to an hour at the gym several times a week. But sometimes you just don’t have the time or energy, especially during the festive period when the days are short and the social calendar is full.
To ensure I get physical movement, which is essential to my mental health, I focus on quick 5-minute exercise snacks and punchy workouts.
One of my favorite Pilates instructors Georgia Waibelrecently shared a workout that ticks that box. This is a five-move routine designed to ignite your core.
I tested this workout on a day I overslept and couldn’t make it to the gym to see if I could really challenge myself in such a short amount of time.
How to do Georgia Waibel’s quick ab routine
You don’t need any equipment to perform this workout, but an exercise mat is helpful. There are five movements in this routine, and Waibel recommends completing eight reps on each side of your body.
My experience trying Georgia Waibel’s quick ab routine
Pilates routines like this always amaze me. The movements are slow and controlled but will burn your muscles like no other. After just a few reps of the first exercise, my core, glutes, hamstrings, and arm muscles switched on, and completing eight reps was a struggle.
This routine primarily targeted the rectus abdominis muscles in the front of your stomach, but it also strengthened other midbody muscles, as well as your arms and legs. Several exercises also tested hip mobility, requiring you to move through a large range of motion and with control.
I was impressed with how hard I had to work during this 5 minute routine. It might not replace a 45-minute weight training session, but it was a good way to get your body moving in a short amount of time. I think doing this routine regularly (at least a few times a week) will improve your core strength, control, and mobility.
Anyone who is short on time can get a lot out of this training. The only caveat is that it may be difficult for beginners, especially movements that require balance on one leg. Before doing an ab-focused routine like this, we recommend learning how to plank and deadbug.
buy pilates mat
Pilates mats are a little thicker than yoga mats, so they provide more cushioning. There are three items you can purchase right now:
AmazonBasics Extra Thick Mat with Carry Strap
This colorful option is only $21.98.
A basic mat for under $10.
Stott Pilates Deluxe Pilates Mat
There are significant discounts on this option from Amazon.
