Five Yoga Moves to Slim Abdominals

Poses to Work Upper, Middle, and Lower Core, Increasing Strength

When done together or apart these simple yoga poses will work all areas of the core abdominal focusing on a tighter, leaner body as well as better posture.

Always stretch before doing any type of exercise, yoga is no different. Before beginning these lessons follow these stretching exercises to get the maximum benefit of your poses without risk of injury.

First Stretch: Lay back on your mat, back flat against the floor and stretch arms upward away from your head. At the same time stretch your legs away from the torso on the ground, toes pointed upward. You should feel the abdominal muscles stretching and loosening and remember to breathe in deeply while you stretch.

Second Stretch: Sit upright and place both legs out in front of you. Put arms above your head and bring them down to touch your toes or as close as you can go to your toes without feeling uncomfortable.

Third Stretch: This is formally known as Monkey Pose in yoga. Stand on your mat, arms above your head, and glide downwards into a touch your toes position. Breathe deeply, and while inhaling bring your arms and torso up to your knees while keeping your arms in the same position. On an exhale, push yourself downward until you touch the floor. Repeat 5-6 times,

1. Boat Pose: Start sitting on your mat, knees bent in front of you and feet flat on the floor. Put your hands under your thighs and lift one foot off the ground and then the other so your balancing on your butt with all your weight on your lower back. Put your hands out from your body, arms bent, palms downward like you're gripping onto air. Your posture should be great, back straight, neck straight, eyes straight ahead. If this is done right you should feel the core working a slight burn in your abdominal. Hold this pose for a breathe count of ten and then relax. Your breathing should always be consistent.