[sidebar]Unlike other core moves that can irritate your neck—we’re looking at you, crunches—this simple, gentle exercise puts you in a tabletop position, and then uses your abdominal muscles to keep you balanced as you slowly move your arms and legs. The result: a firm, strong, flat belly without all the strain. And because this is a compound movement, you’re also toning your hips, back, and upper body at the same time. (Up the ante with this eco-friendly Pilate gear.) Watch as Pilates expert Erika Bloom demonstrates how to properly perform this exercise.
