My workouts have changed significantly this year from having a singular focus on running, to incorporating a lot more swimming and cycling. The one thing that has not changed is my strength training routine and, core work is a major part of it. Today, along with all my friends in the monthly Wednesday round-up, we bring you six core workouts specifically for runners!
This month I’m making it really easy for you to get this done. Below is my four minute video showing you a tabata like core routine you can do on it’s own, or as part of your overall strength training routine. I made it a few years ago while the boys played in the snow of the backyard so, if I can make the whole video in that time, you can squeeze in at least one round.
If you like options (and who doesn’t?) I put together Top 10 Plank Variations for a Stronger Core for Training Peaks a while back. If you know of any other ways to do planks, I don’t want to know about them!

Look Ma! One hand!
And, as promised, below are five more core strengthening routines for you to cycle though. Click on the link to the blog page of each to find out more details on the moves. I don’t know half of the exercises Carly at Fine, Fit Day is referring to. Obviously she is on another level when it comes to core work!
HAPPY FIT MAMA
THIS RUNNER’S RECIPES
BROOKLYN ACTIVE MAMA
RUN FAR GIRL
FINE FIT DAY
[Tweet “Runners! Keep your #core #running strong with 6 new #workouts from 6 different pros! #video”]
Do you have a favorite core exercise?
Can you add anything to my plank variations?
Awesome!! I’m just getting back into core stuff. I eased my way into some Pilates type moves like the scissor legs and alternate leg up things. I’m terrible with names but form has been my focus and breathing. I contract my abs during my spin bike workouts and sit up and lean back while peddling. I feel it all in my core, and love going twists while seated and spinning my legs. It sounds crazy but I’m a huge multi tanker. I can do a lot on a bike in 30-45 minutes these days. Really squeezing the muscles means I can pretty much work out anytime anywhere. Yikes lol.
IM SO SO SO SO PROUD OF ME and my yoga practice 😉 as now I know Ill actually really truly honestly do these exercises.
My core needs it.
I love your video! It’s like you are right there with me, raising me up as usual! And I felt the same way about Carly’s workout. Although I Googled Quadriped. It’s the fancy word for Bird Dog. Lol! I kind of like her word better!
Thanks for sharing this. I’ve honestly been looking for more core workouts to do. It’s one of my weaker areas.
Great video! I can’t get over how adorable the twins are playing in the snow in the background. I need to try some of those plank variations to mix up my own planks! Love this month’s round up!
I used to do core exercises nearly every day and now I’ve been slacking like crazy. I love the comment about how if you can fit in that routine with boys in the background then we can fit it in too! SO TRUE. My hero.
These are great ones in general. I need to work on my core again. I got super lazy. I actually like the birddogs!