Forget weights — I tried this Pilates roll-up exercise that strengthens your core and boosts your posture

Woman stretching on yoga mat during workout at home.

The Pilates roll-up exercise is low-impact, bodyweight and perfect for strengthening your core muscles and building spine flexibility. I’ve been adding it to my exercise routine recently, and it’s helpful if you spend a lot of time sitting at your desk.

To do the Pilates roll-up exercise, lay on your back on one of the best yoga mats, curl upwards to a seated position, then uncurl your body as you roll back down to lay flat on your back again. It’s tough on the abdominal muscles but also uses a curling and uncurling motion to help target the spine.