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Cable bracing This exercise is deceptively difficult— it might look like you're not doing much, but performed correctly, the resistance will help fire every muscle in the trunk simultaneously. Stand with your back straight, legs slightly bent, and pull a cable out so that your arms are fully extended as you hold the handle centered directly in front of you at chest height. Hold—without letting the weight turn or move your torso—for 20 to 30 seconds. Turn around and do the same move on the other side to finish one set. Aim for two to three sets. Side plank variation Lie down in a side plank position, leaning on your left elbow and forearm, hips lifted. With your right hand, grab a cable, pull it in toward your chest and hold it there, while you hold the plank position, for 20 to 40 seconds. Repeat on the other side to complete one set. Aim for two to three sets. If you can easily hold it for 60 seconds or more, increase the amount of weight on the cable. Farmer walks This is another move that looks easier than it is. All you are doing is walking, but you are doing it while holding heavy dumbbells in both hands (you'll know they're heavy enough if your grip is sore by the end of the walk). With a weight in each hand, arms by your sides, take short, quick steps about the distance of half a basketball court and back again. Rest, then repeat. Aim for two to four times. If you feel like you could walk further, increase the amount of weight you're carrying. Abdominal saws Get in a standard plank position, back straight, hips lifted, weight resting on elbows and forearms. Put a folded up towel under your toes. Without losing your strong plank form, use your core muscles to slide your toes back slightly (your arms will also straighten a little bit), and then forward again to your original position. Repeat 10 to 20 times. Aim for two to three sets. Exercise When to Check with Your Doctor First Keeping physically active is key to a healthy lifestyle. But sometimes it's best to check with your doctor before you start to exercise. If you are experiencing back pain or other health concerns, you may want to talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise routine. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends that you see your doctor before engaging in vigorous exercise if two or more of the following apply: You're a man older than age 45 or a woman older than age 55. You have a family history of heart disease before age 55. You smoke or you quit smoking in the past six months. You haven't exercised for three months or more. You're overweight or obese. You have high blood pressure or high cholesterol. You have impaired glucose tolerance, also called prediabetes. Working with your doctor ahead of time is a good way to plan an exercise program that's right for you. Consider it the first step on your path to physical fitness. Health and Wellness Magazine • 87