Trim Your Hips and Tone Your Core with These Workouts

Trimming your hips and toning your core may seem like two completely different fitness goals, but they’re actually closely interconnected. The hips and core work together to give you a solid base of support and stability for everything from walking to weightlifting to yoga poses.

Whether you’re looking to lose weight, gain strength, or simply feel more confident in your own skin, these workouts can help you achieve your goals. Here are some effective exercises to get started:

1. Plank hip dips

This exercise works your core muscles while also targeting your hips and obliques. Begin in a plank position, with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your feet shoulder-width apart. Lower your hips down towards the floor on one side, then use your obliques to lift them back up and repeat on the other side. Try to maintain a straight line from your head to your feet throughout the exercise.

2. Side lunges

Side lunges are a great way to tone your lower body while also improving your hip flexibility. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, then step to the side with one foot and bend your knee to lower your body down towards the ground. Keep your other leg straight, then push off your bent leg to return to standing. Repeat on the other side.

3. Bicycle crunches

Bicycle crunches are a classic core exercise that also engages your hip flexors. Lie on your back with your hands behind your head and your knees bent. Lift your head, shoulders, and feet off the ground, then bring your left elbow towards your right knee while straightening your left leg out. Switch sides and repeat the motion, as if you’re pedaling a bicycle.

4. Hip bridges

Hip bridges target your glutes, hamstrings, and lower back while also engaging your core. Lie on your back with your feet flat on the ground and your knees bent. Lift your hips up towards the ceiling, squeezing your glutes and keeping your core engaged. Lower back down and repeat.

5. Fire hydrants

Fire hydrants are a fun and effective way to work your hip abductors and improve your overall hip mobility. Begin on all fours, with your hands directly under your shoulders and your knees under your hips. Lift one leg out to the side, keeping your knee bent at a 90-degree angle. Lower back down and repeat on the other side.

Incorporating these workouts into your routine can help you trim your hips and tone your core, leading to a stronger, leaner, and more confident body. As always, make sure to warm up before exercising and listen to your body to avoid injury.