Currently My Fav Ab Excercise

As a runner I focus a lot on keeping my core strong. This helps me keep my form proper while pounding out the miles, especially when I'm feeling tired or near the end of my run.

This is my favorite core exercise that I do after each run.


The Plank

Rise up onto your forearms while focusing on keeping your abdominals tight. Hold position for as long as you can without breaking form. Then rest and repeat.

This is the routine I follow:
Do 50 crunches then hold the plank pose for 50 seconds. Then do 40 crunches followed by the plank for 40 seconds. Continue down to 10 seconds.
IT HURTS SO GOOD!

Variations...

While in the plank position, raise your left leg then right then left...

Side plank

Turn to the side so you are raised onto one arm.
Again focus on tightening the abdominals. Hold as long as you can until

you break form, then repeat.

Or

Lower onto one forearm and raise leg for 15-20 reps. Repeat on other side.

Images obtained from http://www.fitsugar.com/2385791