3 Simple Bodyweight Core Drills That Actually Work

You don’t need fancy machines or ab rollers to build a strong, functional core. These three bodyweight core drills can be done anywhere — no equipment required — and they’ll challenge your entire midsection through dynamic movement, coordination, and control.

Here they are from hardest to easiest.

1. Sliding V-Up

This variation adds a controlled tempo to the classic V-up, keeping your body under tension the entire time.

The slower pace forces your core to work harder through the entire range of motion, improving both strength and body control. We need to build the core to leg connection in order to sustain form during this exercise.

2. Opposite Arm to Opposite Leg V-Up

This diagonal movement trains your core to resist rotation while improving coordination.

This drill engages your obliques, hip flexors, and deep core stabilizers, mimicking the cross-body movement patterns used in sports and real life.

3. Bicycle Crunches

A classic — and for good reason. Bicycle crunches hit both the upper and lower abs, as well as the obliques, through rotation and extension. It’s one of the best all-around core finishers. 

Discover the benefits of each and how to program them for better core control, strength, and resilience in today's video.