I never go for a run without doing an ab workout first. Why? It warms up my body, gets me in the mood to work out, and — most importantly — engages my core, which is key before any workout. (It's also fine to do abs after a run when your body is all warmed up; I just prefer to get it out of the way!)
Over the years, I've tried a ton of pre-run ab workouts and narrowed it down to my top three: two 10-minute Youtube videos and one three-minute plank workout right here on POPSUGAR. That supershort option is perfect for my rushed weekday morning runs. Before a longer weekend route, I'll pull up one of the longer, more challenging videos. Switching off between the three options ensures that my abs get a new challenge every time.
Keep reading for my three favourite pre-run core workouts and try one for yourself next time you want to work your abs before the rest of your body, or any time you just want a quick, effective core challenge.