OCR Europe Sports Magazine October 2014 | Page 51

How can you improve it? Stationary core exercises are good, but when are you ever still in an obstacle race? So here are some simple core exercises you can do with very little equipment, that are also applicable to obstacle racing, to improve your core strength:! ! High to low plank Starting in a regular plank position with straight arms, slowly bend one arm until you are resting on your forearm and elbow. Repeat with the other arm, so you are in a low plank. Then, one arm at a time, go back! into a high plank. Pause for 2 seconds at the top/ bottom each time.! ! Resistance band rotation Attach a resistance band to something sturdy at just below shoulder height. Step away, holding the band, until it is tight. Stand side on, holding it out in front of you at shoulder height, with your arms straight. Keeping your arms straight, twist your core (keep your legs/hips still) as far as you can, and then twist back to straight.! ! Slow mountain climbers and kick In the press up position, one leg at a time, lift your foot off the floor, bring your knee up to your elbow, then kick back and up. Slowly return to the ground, and then repeat with the other leg.! ! Hanging knee raises Hanging from a pull up bar (or any bar you can find), completely relax your shoulders, then lift knees to your chest, and lower down. It is important to do this slowly and without momentum. Once this is easy to repeat multiple times, try touching your toes to the bar you are holding instead. PLANKING! Happy Fitness and! training editor! Lucy Clay