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 [1]. (It's also fine to do abs after a run [2] 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 [3]. 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.
3-Minute Plank Workout For Runners
Just three minutes long, this designed-for-runners plank workout is my go-to when I have zero time but still want to work my core. It combines four plank variations for a burn you won't believe.
Hold each of the following planks for 30 seconds:
- Elbow plank
- Elbow plank with leg lift
- Side plank on the left
- Side plank on the right
- Elbow plank
- Spider-Man plank (aka creepy crawler [6])
Check out the full article for more info on this challenging plank workout for runners [7].