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If you feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of core workouts online, you aren't alone. With so many routines competing for attention, it can be difficult to know which exercises genuinely build strength and which simply look impressive on screen. In most cases, real results come from mastering simple, foundational movements that build strength you can rely on in everyday life. If you want a broader understanding of why these basics matter, our guide to old-school functional strength exercises shares a handy breakdown on how traditional movements still build muscle and support full-body performance. To cut through the confusion around core training, we asked expert coach Jesse Padilla to share the exercises he believes everyone should prioritize. He focuses on movements that deliver real strength gains, are accessible for most people and offer long-term benefits beyond what you see on camera. Jesse Padilla Jesse Padilla is a certified personal trainer Senior Head of Sales & Partnerships at Fitbod. What are coach Padilla's 3 essential core building exercises Padilla believes that effective core work doesn't need to be complicated. As he puts it, "You don’t need fancy equipment or advanced techniques to build real core strength." He explains that even experienced lifters benefit from returning to simple, controlled movements performed consistently, since these foundational exercises can be done anywhere and progressed safely over time. The only thing you will need to do these exercises other than yourself is one of the best yoga mats to make sure you can comfortably work through the three floor based exercises. 1. Forearm Plank Trainer tips: Sign up to get the BEST of Tom's Guide direct to your inbox. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsors Forearm planks build a solid foundation by activating nearly every core muscle group; abs, obliques, and the lower back. If a full forearm plank is too challenging, adjust to a straight arm push-up position and hold. Gradually move toward holding a solid forearm plank with proper breathing and bracing. 2. Leg Raises Trainer tips: Leg raises target the lower abs and lower back; areas that are often undertrained. If you want to slow down any part of the movement, make it the lowering phase (the eccentric), this will fire up your core. Modification: Place your hands slightly under your glutes for support, or hold the legs mid-air for an isometric challenge. 3. Bridge Pose Trainer tips: Bridge pose strengthens the lower back, glutes, and hamstrings while opening up the hip flexors and stretching the abdominals. Try lifting your hands slightly off the ground or add controlled thrusting motions once you’ve mastered the basic hold. When discussing core strength with Padilla, he placed particular emphasis on the importance of breathing during core training. It's not something that gets much attention, but he considers it a crucial part of effective strength work. Being able to control your breathing during each exercise supports stability and helps your core muscles work more efficiently. Follow Tom's Guide on Google News and add us as a preferred source to get our up-to-date news, analysis, and reviews in your feeds. More from Tom's Guide The 3 simple exercises an 81-year-old fitness icon does daily to stay strong and mobile This 15-minute dumbbell workout is the one routine you need if you want a stronger core This workout protects your joints while building strength: Here’s a trainer’s 15-minute resistance-band routine for getting stronger over 70 Senior Fitness Writer Jessica has been a fitness writer at Tom’s Guide since 2023, bringing three years of experience writing about health, fitness, and the great outdoors. Her passion for exercise began during her childhood, where she spent weekends hiking and competing in local athletics club events. After earning a master’s degree in journalism from Cardiff University, Jessica found the perfect way to combine her love of storytelling and fitness into a career. Jessica is passionate about testing fitness gear and tech, using her reviews to help readers make informed buying decisions. She ran her first marathon in April 2024, finishing it in 3 hours and 48 minutes. Through her training, she’s developed a deep understanding of what it takes to grow as a runner, from effective workouts and recovery techniques to selecting the right gear for every challenge. When she’s not at her desk, Jessica enjoys spending time in the kitchen crafting new recipes, braving cold water swims and hiking.
