Core work is tough and I can't be the only way to feel like this...right!?

With a bad back for a few months now and a core that completely hates me, I've gone in search of the exercises that actually work when it comes to building up core strength. While the traditional approach was to blast out as many sit-ups as humanly possible in a super short space of time, thankfully we've moved about from that. Now, it's all about the plank and by that I mean, planking every which way possible. Side plank, low plank, high plank, push-ups into planks, those dreaded mountain climbers and so on. In conversation with Pop Sugar, Kristina Marcussen, a neuromuscular physical therapist, gave her number one tip which she recommends practising three times a week.

"If you want to work your core, put your hands on the floor."

These exercises target a number of muscle groups which means you're getting a more dynamic workout and getting more out of the precious time you've allotted to the gym. You'll strengthen your core but also work the muscles you use every day, helping to build them up and make them stronger, which should help to minimise the risk of injury. It's a win-win really BUT if you have any type of niggly injury at all, consult your gym instructor/physio before going ahead with a strenuous workout.