I'm a personal trainer — these 3 exercises build full-body strength while working your core
Suppose you haven't already tried these exercises. In that case, I recommend checking out the instructions below and warming up with a few light sets or even using your bodyweight until you feel comfortable enough with the movement patterns to load them up.
The heavier you go, the more resistance your muscles must overcome, which requires plenty of core engagement, helping you to strengthen these muscle groups tenfold. Ready to try them out? Here they are.
Grab a set of weights and try these.
The great thing about deadlifts? There are many variations you can try depending on the weights you have. If you use dumbbells, focus on holding them at an angle so that you can tap the ends of the dumbbells to the floor with every rep. Otherwise, use kettlebells.
Learn how to deadlift with perfect form here. Aim for 8-12 reps and 3-4 sets.
I've been testing the Centr Smart Stack dumbbells for a few months and have been thrilled with them, but right now, you can save 25% on a pair. This rare discount brings the cost down below some of my other favorite weights, so you get a premium set of weights that range from 5 lbs to 50 lbs that'll last you for years for the same price as a six-month gym membership.
Gorilla rows use a unique foot position to engage more of the muscles down your posterior chain (the back of your body) as you hinge forward at the hips.
Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips.
You may also feel a gentle pull along your hamstrings and your core muscles working harder to keep you stable as you row — these muscles will help with anti-rotation.
To make this move more challenging, position your chest parallel to the floor and row from the ground every rep — this is known as a 'dead stop' row.
The squat press offers a double whammy by strengthening your upper and lower body while relying on your core muscles for stabilization as you hold the weights at your shoulders. It's the very definition of a full-body exercise.
Short on time? Three reasons you don't want to avoid these moves.
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