Forget crunches, planks and sit-ups — I use this slow, controlled Pilates exercise to sculpt my internal and external obliques, as well as build deep core strength

A woman holding a yoga mat with strong abs.

I’ve been practicing Pilates for the past 15 years — it’s helped me get to the start line of six marathons without injury, as well as rebuild my core postpartum. While crunches and sit-ups are great at targeting the six-pack, ‘outer’ core muscles, when it comes to working your internal and external obliques, as well as your deep transverse core, Pilates bicycles come out on top. Read on to find out more about this deep oblique sculpting move, as well as the variations to try.

As a reminder, what works for me might not be right for you and your body. If you’re a complete beginner, you’re pregnant or postpartum, or you’re currently working with an injury, it’s always best to seek personalized advice from a qualified professional.