Middle Management
Provided by: 
By Kurt, Brett, and Mike Brungardt, Prevention
You can do these moves from Kurt, Brett, and Mike Brungardt, authors of The Complete Book of Core Training, as a stand-alone core workout or incorporate them into your total-body routine.
Pick four exercises, and unless otherwise noted, perform two to three sets of 8 to 20 reps.
Sun Salute with Cross
Works whole waist area
Stand with legs slightly more than shoulder-width apart, arms extended overhead with hands just touching. Bending forward at the waist, reach down and touch your right foot, keeping your torso straight and moving as one unit. Straighten back to start. Repeat on the opposite side to complete one rep.
Ankle Reach
Works back
Lie on your belly with legs straight and toes touching the floor. Bend your arms with palms on the floor in line with your ears. Reaching both arms back and up, bend your right leg, reaching your heel toward your butt as you touch your hands to your right ankle. Slowly lower your arms and leg to start. Repeat with your left leg to complete one rep.
Double-Side Jackknife
Works obliques
Lie on your left side, your legs stacked and straight. Wrap your left arm in front of your torso, placing it on your right hip, and put your right hand behind your head. Simultaneously raise your torso and legs, bringing your head toward your hips. Return to start in a controlled motion and repeat for all reps, then switch sides and repeat reps to complete one set. Too hard? Start by lifting just your legs.
Dynamic V-Crunch
Works upper and lower abs and obliques
Lie face up with your legs straight in line with your hips and perpendicular to your torso. Extend your arms in front of you, keeping themin line with your shoulders. Contract your abs and lower your legs so they're at a 45-degree angle with your hips. Then reach toward your left leg, simultaneously raising it and bringing it in line with your hips. Lower your left leg. Repeat with the right leg to complete one rep.
