The BEST Lower Ab Exercise

All the best core exercises train….your entire core.
Not just your abs.

This exercise is a total game changer for back pain, and also building those elusive lower abs.

Let me show you a powerful yet often overlooked exercise: the Hip Flexor March. If you’re dealing with lower back pain or looking to strengthen your lower abs, this exercise is a game-changer.

Here’s how to perform the Hip Flexor March:

  • Start Position: Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart, loop resistance band placed over the top of your feet (where your shoelaces are).

  • Engage Your Core: Tighten your core by pulling your belly button towards your spine.

  • Lift Your Knee: Slowly lift one knee to a 90-degree angle, bringing it up to hip level. Hold for a moment.

  • Lower and Repeat: Lower your leg back down and repeat with the other leg. Alternate legs in a controlled, marching motion.

Here’s Why It’s a Big Deal

  • Strengthen Your Lower Abs

The Hip Flexor March targets your lower abs, an area often neglected in traditional workouts. By lifting your knees against the resistance band, you actively engage and strengthen these muscles, improving core stability and overall abdominal strength.

  • Improve Hip Flexor Function

Tight hip flexors are a common problem, especially if you spend a lot of time sitting. This exercise directly works your hip flexors, helping to stretch and strengthen them. This can lead to better posture, enhanced mobility, and reduced risk of injury.

  • Alleviate Lower Back Pain

Strengthening your lower abs and hip flexors helps take the strain off your lower back. This can be a game-changer if you’re dealing with chronic lower back pain. By incorporating the Hip Flexor March into your routine, you’ll build the necessary muscle support to alleviate pressure on your spine.

  • Enhance Core Stability

The controlled movements of the Hip Flexor March improve your core stability, which is essential for all types of physical activity. A stable core helps you perform other exercises with better form and reduces the risk of injury.

How to Incorporate It Into Your Routine

You don’t need to spend hours on this exercise. Add it to your warm-up or your core routine. Start with 2-3 sets of 10-15 reps per leg, and gradually increase as you get stronger. Consistency is key, so aim to do this exercise a few times a week for the best results.

Just Do It

The Hip Flexor March is a simple yet effective exercise that can transform your lower ab workouts and help alleviate lower back pain. Make it a regular part of your fitness routine and feel the difference in your core strength and stability.

Patrick Henigan

Pat Henigan is the owner of Jacksonville Fitness Academy in North Florida. He’s been published in Reader’s Digest, Shape and is a regular guest on News4Jax and writes for Jacksonville Magazine.

He’s been in the trenches coaching since 2010 and has coached MLS players, internationally capped South American Soccer players, SNL Cast Members and multiple Fortune 500 CEOs.

https://www.henigan.io
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