The 3 Best Core Exercises (to Do Every Day)

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In this episode, Farnham's leading over-50's physiotherapist, Will Harlow, reveals the 3 best core exercises to do every day!

[DrOTGuy]

All my older patients who did core work when they were younger seem to fair much better with their recoveries. Start now and don't stop! Great video, great tips.

[marc]

I find all three movements challenging in the easy positions, no pain, just a challenge for my muscles. It's where I'm at and what I need to work with. Thank you.

[patriciamcbride]

Hi Will, I was watching your video about 3 exercises to stretch the thoracic part of the spine, the calf muscles, and then ways to practice getting up off the floor. Then I lost the video and couldn't put a comment there, so I'm putting it here. Wanted to say how much I appreciate what you are doing for seniors. It's really needed, and if we started working towards these things, it can make a huge difference. Younger people should start, too. I have been active during my life, but a few years ago, I started doing a sedentary job and then started getting pretty bad pain in my spine. Checked with the doctor and found out it was mild wear and tear arthritis. She gave me those standard suggestions about what to do, such as mild stretching, losing weight around the mid section, and other things that you mentioned. Also, she said take Tylenol if it gets too painful. I thought, nope, not getting hooked on taking any medication, to start with. I had hoped she could refer me to a physiotherapist to help me start some exercises and also to help me improve my posture. No such luck, but I started doing my own stretches and exercises and eating foods that are anti-inflammatory, and my back has improved, but I have to keep working at it. So thank you again. I'm going to try some things that you have suggested. Being older doesn't have to mean a great loss in the joy of being able to move and to do it with grace. God bless

[mikesawyer]

This is brilliant. Love the way you instructed this - patiently and clearly. A lot of inexperienced patients have the hardest time isolating their abdominals - I like this approach.

[m.dejonge]

This is the kind of exercises I need. Thank you!!!
I used to be very active, but a combo of long covid, followed by a back injury an next treatment for colon cancer left me with a weak core. The result is that I tire very fast and even walking causes a lot of pain. It upsets me no end!

[cxzhgbg]

i am about 70, currently on a job abroad. killing time enroute, i came across your channel on yt. well done and explained, very easy to follow (core)exercises. many thanks

[mch]

McGill Big Three Exercises
1:30 Curl Up
5:13 Side Plank
7:33 Bird Dog

[DineshSharma-nczy]

Thank you I am 70 years young lovely I have doing these exercises from a quiet a long time which are very nice and my back is perfectly in perfect shape. God bless you.

[danabuch]

I have found that just sitting down and standing up works most of the leg and stomach muscles. Make sure the surface you sit on is at a height that positions your legs level horizontally. Keep your back straight and your arms still at your sides. Chairs, logs, tree rounds, big rocks, pretty much anything works. Also works as a cardio exercise once you can do more reps. Any comments about any possible negatives?

[pollybish]

Thanks for the great advice. Your explanations are so helpful and easy to follow. I am going to do these exercises daily starting today!!!

[CitizenKate]

I just attempted a new workout that called for a full-form side plank. My first time attempting any kind of planking exercise and... yeah — out of the question! Couldn't hold that position for more than a second or two and it was excruciating. So I was hoping to find some way to try to build up to it more gradually instead of just skipping that part. Your "lite" version of the side plank is perfect. When the day comes that I can perform a full-form side plank, I'll know I've achieved something!

[No-jbfy]

Thank you for showing this! Many people hurt themselves doing all sorts of weird stuff. I like that you focus on safety and long term.

[pjjslp]

Thank you so much for this! I'm in my 50s and recovering from back and neck issues that have had me sedentary for a while. Trying various "beginner" core workouts was starting to be frustrating and disheartening. This is exactly where i need to start. Very appreciative!

[dhammratna]

Very well explained & demonstrated 👍

[gladysma]

McGill's 3 big exercises strengthening core with variations:
1:38 curl up
5:13 the side plank
7:40 the bird dog

[ianhope]

One of the best sites I've ever come across. Thanks Will.

[ommaigod]

Thanks for that progression on the side plank. I never thought of that. And the progressions on the bug movements too.

[christophermason]

Great video. I started doing your exercise that involves going from seated to standing and back down again with the hip band around the knees. Great exercise. I normally struggle to activate my lateral glutes but this really hits them.

[rover-t]

In the first exercise it’s important to focus on using the core muscles and not straining the neck. I find closing my eyes and focusing my attention to the stomach muscles when I move is helpful.

[thurgooddukes]

Thanks for the information, I will begin including these exercises along with my stretch routine. 😊