If you’re looking to tone your abdominal muscles in time for summer, it’s recommended to kickstart your ab workout regimen sooner rather than later. According to fitness expert Karen Rodriquez, you don’t have to spend hours in the gym or invest in fancy equipment to effectively strengthen your core. With just under 10 minutes, you can engage in a potent core workout consisting of four bodyweight exercises designed to target different muscle groups. Karen, a personal trainer and stage four cancer survivor, is also the brains behind the Pure Steel Ab Roller. All you need is a comfortable mat to perform these expert-recommended exercises.

Floor Flutter Kicks

Rodriquez highlights the effectiveness of the flutter kicks in targeting the lower abdominal muscles and engaging the hip flexors simultaneously. To execute this exercise correctly, place your hands under your glutes for support, ensuring your lower back is firmly pressed against the floor. Kick your legs just above the ground with small, swift, and controlled movements, making sure your feet do not touch the floor.

Mountain Climbers

Another exercise she recommends is the mountain climbers, which offer a great blend of core activation and cardiovascular benefits while also enhancing stability. Maintain a strong core as you drive your knees towards your chest, mimicking the action of sprinting in place. It’s crucial to focus on control, keeping your hips stable, and avoiding any bouncing movements during this exercise.

Russian Twists

“This classic exercise focuses on the obliques,” she says about Russian Twists. “Sit on the floor, lean back slightly, and twist your torso from side to side. For an added challenge, elevate your feet off the ground or incorporate a weight. Ensure that the rotation comes from your core rather than just swinging your arms.”

Reverse Floor Crunches

“Similar to traditional crunches but with an emphasis on controlled movement, this exercise targets the lower abs,” she says. “Lie flat on your back, bring your knees toward your chest, and lift your hips slightly off the ground using your abdominal muscles rather than relying on momentum. Focus on the contraction at the top of each repetition.”

Trainer Tip

Her final tip? “Aim to perform each exercise for 40 seconds, followed by 20 seconds of rest. Repeat the circuit for 2 to 3 rounds, depending on your available time. This brief yet intense routine is highly effective for core strengthening and will yield results. Your core strength will noticeably improve with consistent practice.”