10 minutes and 10 moves to strengthen your abs and improve your posture

Looking for a short workout to get your body moving? Look no further. We've found an abs routine that uses 10 moves in as many minutes to strengthen your mid-body muscles.

You won't need any equipment other than a yoga mat either, so it's ideal for those busy days when you can't make it to the gym. 

The brains behind this routine is personal trainer Roxanne Russell. She challenges you to perform each exercise for 50 seconds, followed by a short 10-second rest, before moving on to the next one, ensuring you make the most of the 10-minute session. 

As it's so short, you can use this routine as a one-off way to get your fitness fix, fast. Or, if you enjoy it, Russell says you could add it into your wider exercise plans as a daily abs workout.

Check out the workout from Russell via the video below, where you can find a demonstration of each move and a handy timer to keep tabs on your progress. 

Watch Roxanne Russell's abs workout

Russell's session is billed as an abs routine, and if you're looking to work your six-pack muscles (or rectus abdominis, to give them their full title) then it'll definitely hit the spot. But it also works your wider core muscles.

The abs are just one part of your core; a collection of muscles that link your upper and lower body. The core transfers power between these two areas, making a strong set of core muscles critical for sporting performance. 

The core also plays a pivotal part in everyday functions like bending and twisting, as well as supporting your spine and sparing your back from excessive loads (preventing injuries in this area). Having strong core muscles should also make it easier to maintain an upright posture, either while at your desk or standing. 

With all of these benefits, it's vital that you do some core strengthening exercises regularly, to build your mid-body muscles.