A trainer says to do this 10-minute workout instead of crunches if you want to build functional core strength

A woman on the floor about to do a core workout.

Crunches are beneficial if you’re trying to target just your abdominal muscles, but if you’re looking to build functional core strength to bulletproof your body and make everyday movements easier, they won't cut it. However, that’s exactly what this 10-minute workout from fitness trainer, Jason Pak, intends to do.

Why aren’t crunches enough for building a stronger core? While your abdominal muscles do make up part of your core muscles, they’re only one part of the puzzle. You’ve also got your obliques, transverse abdominis, lower back muscles and pelvic floor to think about. Your core muscles stabilise your body and, to do this, you also need to include anti-rotation, anti-extension, and anti-lateral extension exercises that challenge your midsection to resist movement, not just create it.