Start by lying down on the floor (an exercise mat or blanket may make this a little more comfortable) with your arms at your sides, your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Begin the movement by bringing both hands up to your left knee as you crunch your trunk up towards the left. Breathe out as you are coming up and make sure you get your right shoulder blade off the floor. Return to the starting position and repeat the movement on the opposite side. Repeat this exercise 10 times to each knee for a total of three sets. Be sure to take a break between sets to relax your stomach muscles and do each repetition in a slow and controlled manner

Shaun Karp is a certified personal trainer in Vancouver. For further information call his office at 604-420-7800.