It only takes five bodyweight moves to build abs and strengthen your core

Working on your abs can feel like a chore, doing endless sit-ups and crunches to develop mid-body muscle. If you're after a bit more variety, you can use this Pilates-inspired five-move bodyweight workout to strengthen your core without weights.

Like with many core strengthening exercises, you don't need equipment to start. Although, it's still worth rolling out one of the best yoga mats for support, as you'll be spending most of this workout on the floor.

The short routine, developed by personal trainer Rhiannon Bailey, uses exercises commonly found in many Pilates classes. This includes a few toe dip and leg lift variations, which keep your core engaged as you move your lower body.

You'll do each core exercise for 30 seconds, creating a 2.5-minute circuit. Repeat the circuit up to three times for an effective ab and core workout that'll help improve your stability, balance, and circulation in just under eight minutes.

It's important to keep your core engaged when your legs are lifted to prevent your back from arching. To get the technique just right and get the most from the session, Bailey advises you "ensure your pelvis is tilted, so your lower back is pinned to the floor (no gap)."

Watch Rhiannon Bailey's five-move core workout

Many people do crunches and sit-ups to develop their abs, but there's more to this mid-body muscle than aesthetics. Your core, which includes your rectus abdominis six-pack abs muscles, plays a crucial role in your body and workout performance. 

A stronger core helps develop your balance and stability, improves your circulation, and encourages a connection between your upper and lower body, which can positively affect your posture.

If you want to try the routine or include it in your regular workout, we've listed all the moves you need below. If you want some guidance on the technique, be sure to watch Bailey's demonstrations before you get started. 

• Tabletop leg lifts
• Single tabletop toe dips
• Double tabletop toe dips
• Tabletop extensions
• Tabletop toe dip extensions

Not everyone thinks of Pilates as a strength-building way to work out, but you can develop upper body muscle with a no-equipment five-minute Pilates workout. The key to getting results is focusing on your form, lowering slowly, and getting the technique right.

While Bailey's routine is a great way to build your core without weights, if you have one of the best kettlebells to hand, it's worth learning how to do kettlebell swings. This multi-muscle exercise works your whole body, including your core, and boosts your metabolism.