By Tasha Friedman
Contributing Writer

Ever dreamed of having a six-pack? Or stalked people on Pinterest and wished you looked as good as them? Even if you don’t want to admit it, we have all been in that position.
Abs are something that most people strive for, especially when it’s bikini season. But what about in the cold months of winter in Boston? A strong and toned core is important throughout the year.
The “core” involves your abdominals, your back muscles and the other muscles found in the center of your body. The muscles that stabilize the hip and lower back are mainly thought of when using the word “core.”
A strong core has real world benefits besides the aesthetic and athletic viewpoints. A strong core supports good posture and proper joint alignment. Good posture not only makes you look and feel better but also prevents back pain.
Good posture also places the least amount of stress on your joints. Strong stabilizers keep your neck, shoulders, hips, and knees properly aligned to minimize wear and tear on your body. Strong stabilizers also let you use the strength in your arms and legs.
There are many ways to achieve the goal of having that strong core. Instead of spending the money on a personal trainer every week or joining a gym, you can stay home and build up muscle on your own. There are multiple exercises that are easy and can be accomplished conveniently and effectively.
The standard sit up is an easy ab workout that can be done on the floor of your home. The second exercise is a crunch, which works the upper abdomen muscles.
Other standard exercises are the plank and side plank. Keeping your arms at a ninety-degree angle, balance on your lower arms and toes, making sure your abdomen is tight.
Side planks are a bit more advanced. Turning to one side, have one arm at a ninety-degree angle and lift up. Be aware that you are straight and not leaning over.
Heel touches are just one other easy ab workout that can be done at home. Lying on your back with your legs bent, position your feet shoulder width apart. Palms down and arms extended, move your upper body side to side and touch your heels. This exercise works on those side abs.
There are many more ab workouts that will help strengthen your core. Being able to do these workouts three times each for one minute, six days a week will get you closer to having a strong abdomen.
The dreaming is over; time to get to work!