Torso twist stretches legs and core muscles

This exercise simultaneously stretches your legs and strengthens the all-important muscles in your abdomen. Remember to keep your hips still as you twist your torso to one side. Think of reaching your heels forward throughout the entire move.

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1 Sit upright on a level, padded surface. Straighten your legs out in front of you. Separate your feet about 25 to 30 inches apart. Bring your fingertips in front of your chest with your elbows pointing out to the sides.

2 Without letting your hips twist, inhale and revolve your torso to the right side, then straighten your arms. Hinge forward at the hips, reaching your left arm toward your right foot. Hold this position while you exhale. Return to center and repeat twisting to the other side. Continue until you’ve done six twists to each side.

-- Karen Voight

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