Sometimes your core needs something a little bit special to whip it into shape. So if you’re up for something a little fun and different – yet amazingly effective – it’s time to try the banana roll!
This exercise may look (and sound!) a little daft, but it’s one of the best exercises to test and strengthen your obliques, abs and lower back. It’s very safe to do and can be used as a therapeutic exercise, but it’s also a lot harder than it looks.
Even better, it needs zero equipment, so you can do it right now!
You will find this exercise more comfortable on a cushioned surface such as mat or carpet.
You can make this move more intense by ramping up the isometrics on your sides:
When you roll onto your side, balance and hold for 5 seconds, keeping your arms and legs off the ground. Roll onto your stomach then back onto the other side and hold again, balancing and breathing.
For the perfect beach body ready for the summer, combine these exercises to improve your core strength with the banana roll, plus a couple of quick gym sessions each week.
Thanks to Health.com for the image
I have just tried this and it's great fun, but tough to do after just a few rolls. I did a minute though.
I am also going to be shifting the furniture to give this a go. Having closed the curtains first!
ha - I have never heard of this but I am definitely going to be doing this on our rug later. Not sure if I'd be brave enough to roll around on the gym floor though...
30 August 2017
Jim R.
not only a good core exercise, really helps a stiff back after a day at the computer!