The 3 Best Core Exercises (to Do Every Day)

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In this episode, Farnham's leading over-50's physiotherapist, Will Harlow, reveals the 3 best core exercises to do every day!
If you're suffering from nagging knee pain that hurts in the morning and stops you from walking as far as you'd like, you can take our free knee pain guide - which will give you 5 expert tips to put a stop to knee pain at home - by visiting here: ht-physio.co.uk/knee-pain-gui...
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If you're over-50 with a painful problem in the Farnham, Surrey area, you can learn more about how Will Harlow and HT Physio can help you overcome a painful problem here: ht-physio.co.uk/
*Any information in this video should not be used as a substitute for individual medical advice. Please seek advice from your local healthcare professional before taking action on the information in this video.* Full policy here: ht-physio.co.uk/injury-discla...

[@DrOTGuy]

All my older patients who did core work when they were younger seem to fair much better with their recoveries. Start now and don't stop! Great video, great tips.

[@HT-Physio]

Absolutely - preventative work starts as early as possible!

[@christiannacolbert5603]

They fare much better? When you say younger, would 50s count (vs 80s)? 50s are still fairly young. I assume the sooner one starts, the better, of course.

[@DrOTGuy]

@christiannacolbert5603 yes, sooner the better- and being consistent helps a lot. When I say "younger" I'm thinking of my patients that are currently between 65-95 and started exercise and core work before 40. However, I've had a few really fit 80 year Olds that barely starting exercising in their late 50's or early 60's. Never too late!

[@marc9644]

I find all three movements challenging in the easy positions, no pain , just a challenge for my muscles. It's where I'm at and what I need to work with. Thank you.

[@mch171]

McGill Big Three Exercises 1:30 Curl Up 5:13 Side Plank 7:33 Bird Dog

[@walkinghills]

Thank you!

[@sarahwalkerbeach6985]

thank you :)

[@smarg5130]

Thanks!

[@Pooty_With_A_Fat_Booty]

Thank you!

[@aDogNamedHandsome]

Thanks.

[@user-cx2zh3gb2g]

i am about 70, currently on a job abroad. killing time enroute, i came across your channel on yt. well done and explained, very easy to follow (core)exercises. many thanks

[@HT-Physio]

That's great to hear, I'm pleased you came across my channel! Wishing you all the best on your travels

[@mikesawyer1336]

This is brilliant. Love the way you instructed this - patiently and clearly. A lot of inexperienced patients have the hardest time isolating their abdominals - I like this approach.

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you so much for your comment I really appreciate it!

[@gladysma308]

McGill's 3 big exercises strengthening core with variations: 1:38 curl up 5:13 the side plank 7:40 the bird dog

[@kersi-sandiego6036]

Thanks!

[@ronwhite8503]

Cheers, fella. Saved me listening to the waffle.

[@Taj77]

@@ronwhite8503 Waffle?! I didn’t hear any waffle, just clear and essential advice on how to achieve best results.

[@gregorybeale]

How many of each and how many sets? Thanks

[@marcm2957]

Thanks he rambles on…

[@patriciamcbride2150]

Hi Will, I was watching your video about 3 exercises to stretch the thoracic part of the spine, the calf muscles, and then ways to practice getting up off the floor. Then I lost the video and couldn't put a comment there, so I'm putting it here. Wanted to say how much I appreciate what you are doing for seniors. It's really needed, and if we started working towards these things, it can make a huge difference. Younger people should start, too. I have been active during my life, but a few years ago, I started doing a sedentary job and then started getting pretty bad pain in my spine. Checked with the doctor and found out it was mild wear and tear arthritis. She gave me those standard suggestions about what to do, such as mild stretching, losing weight around the mid section, and other things that you mentioned. Also, she said take Tylenol if it gets too painful. I thought, nope, not getting hooked on taking any medication, to start with. I had hoped she could refer me to a physiotherapist to help me start some exercises and also to help me improve my posture. No such luck, but I started doing my own stretches and exercises and eating foods that are anti-inflammatory, and my back has improved, but I have to keep working at it. So thank you again. I'm going to try some things that you have suggested. Being older doesn't have to mean a great loss in the joy of being able to move and to do it with grace. God bless

[@DineshSharma-nc8zy]

Thank you I am 70 years young lovely I have doing these exercises from a quiet a long time which are very nice and my back is perfectly in perfect shape. God bless you.

[@HT-Physio]

Keep up the great work!

[@m.dejonge5055]

This is the kind of exercises I need. Thank you!!! I used to be very active, but a combo of long covid, followed by a back injury an next treatment for colon cancer left me with a weak core. The result is that I tire very fast and even walking causes a lot of pain. It upsets me no end!

[@pollybish2988]

Thanks for the great advice. Your explanations are so helpful and easy to follow. I am going to do these exercises daily starting today!!!

[@HT-Physio]

You're more than welcome

[@dhammratna83]

Very well explained & demonstrated 👍

[@ianhope3203]

One of the best sites I've ever come across. Thanks Will.

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you so much for your kind words!

[@No-jb6fy]

Thank you for showing this! Many people hurt themselves doing all sorts of weird stuff. I like that you focus on safety and long term.

[@HT-Physio]

Absolutely - safety is key when exercising!

[@CitizenKate]

I just attempted a new workout that called for a full-form side plank. My first time attempting any kind of planking exercise and... yeah - out of the question! Couldn't hold that position for more than a second or two and it was excruciating. So I was hoping to find some way to try to build up to it more gradually instead of just skipping that part. Your "lite" version of the side plank is perfect. When the day comes that I can perform a full-form side plank, I'll know I've achieved something!

[@poncena3087]

Thank you so much for this great video. Your explanation is so easy and helpful to follow.

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you for your comment, that's great to hear!

[@danabuch324]

I have found that just sitting down and standing up works most of the leg and stomach muscles. Make sure the surface you sit on is at a height that positions your legs level horizontally. Keep your back straight and your arms still at your sides. Chairs, logs, tree rounds, big rocks, pretty much anything works. Also works as a cardio exercise once you can do more reps. Any comments about any possible negatives?

[@sachemrock]

Thanks Will, another great video!

[@andyquinn1125]

Excellent. Thanks!

[@ommaigod]

Thanks for that progression on the side plank. I never thought of that. And the progressions on the bug movements too.

[@bergalf]

Great and necessary content, simple explanation, easy way to do those exercises following the instructions. Congratulations and thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge. Greetings from Brazil.

[@annela2887]

Thanks ,Wil ,willing to try.Enjoyed

[@HT-Physio]

You're welcome

[@edwardbrady9753]

Great youtube series with excellent content

[@tcapd]

Thank you!

[@mikechadwick8163]

Great exercises and well explained. Thanks Will.

[@HT-Physio]

You're welcome :)

[@Stappit]

Keep it simple: 12 Reps of ABS, followed by 12 Reps of SABS (12 LEFT, 12 RIGHT). REPEAT THE CYCLE 3 TIMES and pause if you need to. Works all of the muscles side and stomach.

[@flordelotus2184]

Just found your channel and really liked your videos! They should be shared continuously since you do a public health service! I'll try to keep the practice. Thank you so much!

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you so much - I hope my video has been of use!

[@mjgrant1515]

the instructions are so well presented. i loved this video. thank you. i’ve been doing the curl up wrong for avery long time. now i know better.

[@HT-Physio]

You're more than welcome!

[@maryspangler4557]

So wonderful for so many activities. Thank you for helping us stay healthy.❤

[@HT-Physio]

Always happy to help!

[@mcdade7489]

Thanks mate. Brilliant as always😊

[@HT-Physio]

You're welcome!

[@lucillachan1712]

Thank so much .👍❤️

[@salishseamermaid]

I always appreciate your videos! This one is great.

[@HT-Physio]

Thanks so much for your kind comment :)

[@africaeyesandears]

Well done -thanks

[@JS-lk8og]

Thankyou for thinking of us older peeps ❤

[@rowenawallace5890]

Brilliant, clear instruction. Good core strength is essential as we get older.

[@HT-Physio]

I completely agree!

[@ALEXANDERJMORGAN]

Thank you

[@DeansGoTravelling]

Brilliant, thankyou 😊

[@jeet-Seattle]

Thanks

[@lupechacon-florez7520]

These are brilliant thank you so much for such detailed explanations as well. All the best to you.

[@HT-Physio]

I'm pleased you found the video helpful that's great to hear!

[@christophermason7735]

Great video. I started doing your exercise that involves going from seated to standing and back down again with the hip band around the knees. Great exercise. I normally struggle to activate my lateral glutes but this really hits them.

[@HT-Physio]

That's great to hear - I'm glad it has been helping!

[@DeeNaNaa23]

Thank you so much 🙏

[@JohnJohn-fz6nt]

Love your channel! Also a big fan of Dr. Stewart McGill. I have his book THE BACK MECHANIC. Thank you for helping us older folks😊

[@thurgooddukes7381]

Thanks for the information, I will begin including these exercises along with my stretch routine. 😊

[@HT-Physio]

You're welcome :)

[@suryabahadur1945]

Great ...well explained Thanks

[@HT-Physio]

Happy to help!

[@Seelastar]

Definitely trying these 😊

[@DG-pu1lp]

Great video thanks. Do any of your videos show how to build a routine from scratch? Eg what main areas (like core exercises) to include, then within each area, how many different types of exercises to include, then how many sets and reps to do?

[@grammasgardenofideas5081]

wonderful. thank you

[@HT-Physio]

You're very welcome

[@bflor5577]

Great exercises and explanation. Thanks

[@HT-Physio]

You're welcome!

[@kanoebarker]

Thank you Will, I really love your videos. They really help

[@HT-Physio]

That's great to hear, thank you so much!

[@cuauhtemocsilveira7306]

Very good!

[@susanmetcalfe2222]

So enjoying working through your videos finding which ones are good for me & learning the routines. Instructions so easy to understand. Will you are a star😊

[@susanmetcalfe2222]

PS Just ordered your book!

[@vx5468]

Thank you! I had forgotten these and need to add them to my day.

[@HT-Physio]

Have a great day :)

[@luciehsuen8981]

Thanks well explained & easy to understand. Will come back to these again. ❤️simple exercise to strengthen the core muscles.

[@HT-Physio]

You're very welcome

[@jameswaugaman8052]

Will add these! I have been doing front planks but will add these to my routine. Thank you!!

[@HT-Physio]

Wishing you all the best - I hope you find these useful!

[@mariateran932]

S'cience-based always gets my attention. I'm definitely going to add these 3 to my morning 'stretches Great video. Thank you Will Harlow.

[@HT-Physio]

You're very welcome!

[@faithg9766]

Excellent, you make all this doable.

[@HT-Physio]

That's great to hear, thank you!

[@clivebasson7831]

Really very useful for me. Thanks again.

[@HT-Physio]

Glad to hear that!

[@AboutCreativity1]

That's Good, Keep Going!

[@mamalovesthebeach437]

Thank you for this video! I like your patient well thought out process of teaching us how to do exercises intelligently.

[@freezo244]

These are awesome 👌🏽Thanks again!

[@HT-Physio]

You're welcome!

[@olga1_____30]

Thank you very much, this is very helpful!

[@HT-Physio]

Glad it was helpful!

[@rover-t]

In the first exercise it’s important to focus on using the core muscles and not straining the neck. I find closing my eyes and focusing my attention to the stomach muscles when I move is helpful.

[@HT-Physio]

Great tip! It's good to form the mind-muscle connection

[@sandramelo7583]

Thank you. Obrigada.

[@HT-Physio]

You're welcome

[@m.hartyfool]

Excellent. No pain, just gain from your recommendation. Grateful.

[@HT-Physio]

That's great to hear!

[@gimmeagig]

Your videos are good. I'm doing variations of this almost every morning. I'm going to do these suggested exercises just like you describe them.I think I'm going to like them.

[@jigneshpatel5469]

Very nice explanation. Easy to follow these exercises and can do a big improvement to core. Thanks a lot

[@HT-Physio]

That's great to hear - I hope the video can be of help!

[@yuhanabujang6759]

All your exercises are easy to understand and easy to do. Thank you very much, much appreciated.

[@HT-Physio]

Very happy to help!

[@suwarnananoti7542]

Very well explained and helpful !

[@HT-Physio]

So pleased it was helpful!

[@mrhbarker]

Thanks Will

[@HT-Physio]

You're welcome :)

[@zoni36]

Thank u so much!!

[@HT-Physio]

You're very welcome!

[@yokeliew8550]

Clear concise simple instructions; also variations for those less ambled👌

[@HT-Physio]

Have a great day!

[@ronaldrose7593]

Hello 👋 my friend, thank you for sharing this valuable information. All the best to you. 😊

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you for your comment - have a great day!

[@user-ez1gx6nt1e]

In my opinion the best stomach and back that I have done are the simple exercises where by you stand strait raise your knees up to your stomach and put your hands under your legs do this ten reps to start with and then build up

[@NicolMackinnon]

Very interesting, Great video, I will certainly be trying these , Thanks 👍🏻

[@HT-Physio]

Wishing you all the best!

[@crazybirdblonde]

Awesome! Thank you💖

[@HT-Physio]

You're welcome :)

[@vincekevins5841]

Excellent video..

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you!

[@ianhope3203]

Very informative, 74, luckily do 2and 3 offen in Pilates classes. Will stop crunches.

[@LouiseGraham-wx8tg]

Good day, have a blessed and safe week 🙏

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you, you too!

[@NickSmith-pg2oq]

Thank you, i found this very informative and you explained all 3 movements very clearly and easy to follow. I will check out your book as i have been looking for something to help over 50s with strength and mobility. Im 56 and struggling to maintain my fitness due to injuries and osteo arthritis in my spine.

[@HT-Physio]

I'm really glad to hear my video was appreciated, I really hope the book can be of real use to you as well!

[@cheeravishwisutt7099]

Love it, will try to practice daily^^

[@HT-Physio]

Great work :)

[@millsmoore24]

Very interesting, thank you. Building strength, injury free 🎉 👍

[@HT-Physio]

That's great to hear, keep up the great work!

[@gladysma308]

Thank you for your clear explanation and demo particularly suggesting the variation even for beginners. Please provide auto translate to other languages.

[@ladybird8841]

Thank you 💐

[@HT-Physio]

You're very welcome!

[@sarahdee374]

brilliant! I'm sure most of my occasional back tenderness is due to my flabby core. You make it concise and easier to do regularly. I also believe I'm experiencing early sign of what I think is frozen shoulder syndrome. Do you have a video for this issue?

[@jeffreydavis3117]

I am an English man who has been living in India for the past 40 years. I am 83 and have been following simple yoga exercises for the past 2 years. Your demonstration in this video explains aspects that my yoga tutor has not mentioned but your explanation make so much sense. Thanks so much for your easy to follow procedures. ps...your Sit to stand instruction has been so very helpful. thanks Will. Rgds. Jeff D

[@HT-Physio]

Thank you for your comment! Sometimes it means I have to talk for a bit longer than people would like - but I think it's important to explain exactly why we're doing certain movements to help individuals make an educated decision for themselves! I'm pleased you've found my videos helpful :)

[@mrhbarker]

Just bought your book

[@richardjones8303]

Extremely well presented young man! Clear and precise even I could understand.The old lady reckons she’s going to have a go as well.

[@umfotzaxi]

Nice! Probably the best tutorial video on how to do the Big3 from McGill! Thanks Will. Any idea on what to do instead of the curl-up when you also have neck pain ? I find the curl up to be very painful... thanks for the response and the amazing videos!

[@kaydiers5705]

There are 6 neck stretch exercises on KZbin that helped me. It is the 45 degree angle in slow motion, repetition and gentle movement that eased a bunch of kinks out. Health and blessings to you!

[@goodevins9408]

Your awesome Will!

[@HT-Physio]

Thanks so much

[@lyra2282]

These are excellent, and we do them or very similar variations in Stott pilates. I found it to be a life changing method and it's amazing for core strength and overall stability, flexibility and balance.

[@sharman814]

Just have to do it

[@fungalbob]

Marvelous

[@El_Ophelia]

Interesting. We always called that last exercise "cross-crawling". Thank you for posting.

[@lynnchasan6339]

Thank you Will, these 3 core exercises are very helpful - now part of my daily exercise plan

[@mazenkilani]

Great exercises; easy to understand the benefits and effective in achieving them.

[@HT-Physio]

So glad you think so!

[@Julzrocks]

Thank you for the very helpful video. I have lumbar spondolysis. Can I do these exercises?

[@carolynknapschaefer3561]

Thank you for clear instructions as I need to strengthen my core as well as my back. When I began rebounding last month I experienced some low back pain so hopefully this will help me! God bless you

[@HT-Physio]

Wishing you all the best - I hope my video has been able to offer some support!

[@carolynknapschaefer3561]

Yes, doing these exercises have helped tremendously! Thank you😊

[@lmusima3275]

Great video. I’m 46 and enjoy these exercises

[@HT-Physio]

Pleased to help!

[@sweetsimpleslowlife2709]

Love your accent 😍 The exercises are great too! 🙌

[@eritter9165]

Just discovered your Over- Fifties. Great, simpel, effective exercises. Thank you ! I recommend your channel to others. I am 65 and always liked sports. Speed iceskating in the winter and race and mtb cycling all year through. Last december I underwent a hernia inguinalis operation on my right side. Are there any specific exercises to prevent such an 'experience' on my left side ?

[@laurelcoombes1585]

Good ones 😊👍

[@11-jianna21]

Sir you showed nice exercise for spine ache