Crunched for time? You just need 6 minutes.

The days seem to get shorter and shorter, workdays become work nights, and workouts become, well, they just disappear. It feels like working out is this far-fetched goal that can't seem to be accomplished.

Have you caught yourself saying,

"I'll start on Monday."

Behold, it's now Monday and what are you doing? Nothing. Starting another week without adding in your planned workouts.

Let's make sure that doesn't happen anymore. If we're so precious with our time and money, why can't we be with our bodies? Shoot for utilizing each and every minute that you are not at work to nurture and care for yourselves, whether it's 5 minutes of inner thigh exercises, breathing, a power nap, whatever it may be, enhance your body.

Put down that phone, turn off the TV and work your body.

Today we'll focus on 6-minute abs. Aside from having zero muffin top and looking great in a bikini, having a strong core has amazing health benefits. A strong core means a strong foundation. Core workouts the muscles in your hips and back, helping them to function together. As you start working your core (incorporate smart breathing: exhale on exertion), you'll begin to feel those muscles working and they will quickly become defined, if you're committed. Abs are made in the kitchen and defined in your workouts...so it's said.

Enough talk,  get that music going, it's time to start your workout.


1 MINUTE WARM UP: 

• Arm circles: 15 seconds
• Alternating lunges: 30 seconds total (15 seconds each side)
• Kick crunch: 15 seconds (alternating sides)
• Exhale & engage your abs as your kick your left leg up and bring your right hand to toes (repeat with other leg).

Kumbhakasana Pose (Plank)
photo: yoga mama

AB WORKOUT: 

Note: You can add a medicine ball or dumbbell for the Russian Twist, but you don't need it. Work up to it. 

1. 1 minute plank  (you can drop to your elbows to modify/adjust.)
1. Keep your wrists under your shoulders. DO NOT let your back sag or stick up like downward dog. Pull your belly button into your spine. Engage abs and lats. 
2. 1 minute seated Russian Twist
3. 1 minute side plank (alternating sides; 30 seconds on your left & 30 on your right)
4. 1 minute mountain climbers
5. 1 minute plank

Hooray! You're done! Quick, to the point and targeting those abs. Keep up the good work.