A Pilates instructor uses this 10-minute routine to stretch the whole body and activate deep core muscles

Woman on yoga pat does Pilates strecth.

Want a strong, solid core so your body has good posture, balance, stability and flexibility? Then exercises like stomach crunches–that are more about engaging superficial abdominal muscles—won’t cut it.

You need to reach the pelvic floor, the deeper abdominal muscles, the diaphragm and the muscles that surround your spine.