Stabilize the legs when doing curls

When performing the exercise known as oblique curls, try squeezing a stability ball with your legs to help stabilize the lower half of your body. (The oblique muscles are those at the sides of your midsection, part of the abdominal muscles.) Using the ball will help you get an effective rotation with your upper body without allowing your hips to twist.

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1 Using a mat, lie on your back and hug a stability ball between your legs with your calves and heels squeezing the ball. Straighten your legs and position them directly over your hips. Reach your arms overhead, inhale and lengthen your spine.

2 On an exhale, contract your abdominal muscles and slowly curl up, bringing your right shoulder toward your left foot. Lift your upper body as high as possible. At the peak of the contraction, both shoulders should be raised off the ground. Pull your navel toward your spine and pause for three seconds. Slowly lower yourself and return to the starting position. Repeat eight to 12 times, rest 20 seconds, then repeat the exercise, bringing your left shoulder to the right foot this time.

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Karen Voight

Karen Voight can be reached at kvoightla@aol.com.