As the New Year arrives, many people look back at their festive-season indulgences and feel the need to restart healthier habits. The holidays are often filled with rich food, sweet treats, and relaxed routines, which can leave many feeling sluggish and low on energy. Now that the celebrations are over, it is the perfect time to refocus on fitness, revive energy levels, and reset the body.
To help people get back on track, celebrity fitness trainer Yasmin Karachiwala has suggested incorporating short yet effective exercises into daily routines. In her latest Instagram post, she shared a quick, powerful 5-minute workout designed to boost metabolism and burn calories.
“We laughed, we celebrated, we ate well — and now it’s time to move again. If the holidays left you feeling a little heavier, this 5-minute core routine is a great place to begin,” she wrote.
Yasmin Karachiwala’s Post-Holiday Core Workout
1. Alternating Leg Raises
This core-strengthening exercise targets the lower abdominal muscles and improves hip mobility. It is performed by lying on your back and lifting one straight leg at a time towards the ceiling. The key is to control the movement, engage the core, and avoid arching the lower back.
2. Side-To-Side Heel Touch
For this move, lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Lift your shoulders slightly and alternately reach each hand toward the corresponding heel. This helps strengthen the oblique muscles, improves side movement, and supports better core stability without stressing the neck.
3. Straight Leg Lowers
Effective for building core strength and enhancing hip flexibility, this exercise involves lowering one or both legs toward the floor while keeping the lower back pressed down. The goal is to maintain control and stability by engaging the abdominal muscles throughout the movement.
4. Bicycle Crunch
A popular and powerful abdominal exercise, the bicycle crunch works the upper, lower, and side abs. Start by lifting your shoulder blades off the floor, bringing one elbow towards the opposite knee, and alternating sides in a cycling motion. This enhances muscle tone and core coordination.
5. Plank Hold With Leg Lift
This move is excellent for full-body stability. Begin in a plank position, then slowly lift one leg 5 to 8 inches off the ground while maintaining balance. Keeping the leg straight helps build core strength, improve balance, and develop muscular endurance.
Yasmin recommends performing three sets of each exercise with 12–15 repetitions per set for best results. The routine is ideal for beginners as well as fitness enthusiasts looking to reintroduce movement into their schedule.
However, experts advise individuals to listen to their bodies and avoid overexertion. Gradual consistency is more important than intensity when restarting workouts.
Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides general information only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical guidance.