Reach For Your Goal

by Candy Howell
(Springfield, Ohio )

I have found this technique to be an interesting way to perform a great core exercise. Taking a piece of brightly colored paper, fold it in half so that it will stand up when turned over. Write your goal on one side of the paper, whether this goal is a weight you want to reach, or a size you are trying to get to. Place this "goal" on the couch cushion, right on the edge of the couch.

Lie on your back with your feet at the base of couch, knees bent. Place your hands across you chest (for beginners) or place your fingers lightly behind your head (for advanced). Do 10 to 15 crunches (or as many as you can), resting after each set for about one minute. Each time you come up you will see your goal, and the reason for your hard work each day. The exercise will work your abs and the goals will exercise your determination!

I have had success with the exercise ball as well, not only doing crunches from laying on your back, but also on your stomach, bending backwards as though reaching for your goals that would be secured on the ceiling.

One more core exercise I find rewarding, is simple pushups with your goals written on a piece of paper and placed directly under you. The goal here is to not let your nose touch the goals!