Machines That Work Your Body's Core

The core of the body includes the abdominal muscles and the lower back muscles. Having strong core muscles is important for back health, posture support and increased overall strength. There are many machines that work your core muscles by targeting your abdominal muscles, your back muscles or both.

  1. Crunch Machines

    • Crunch machines use either cables or plate weights to target the abdominal muscles. These machines are used by sitting in the chair and grasping either the cables or the handles above the shoulders. Be sure to adjust the weight to a level where you can perform 10 to 15 repetitions. Pull the cables or handles down toward your feet. This will engage your abdominal muscles and strengthen your core.

    Hyperextension Chairs

    • Hyperextension chairs target your lower back muscles. They work by using your body weight against you. When exercising on a hyperextension chair, stand on the foot platform and lean, hips towards the ground, over the padding so that you are in a V shape with your face facing the ground. You then lift your body toward the ceiling until your back is slightly extended. This will work out your lower back muscles.

    Adjustable Weight Benches

    • Weight benches may be used to work out your entire core. Adjust the bench to a decline and perform crunches for a workout that strengthens all of your abdominal muscles. Adjust the bench to a flat setting, lie on your stomach and lift your arms and legs upward, toward the ceiling to work out your back muscles.

    Knee Raise Chairs

    • Knee raise chairs are elevated chair backs that lack seats. There are arm rests that you use to hold yourself up while doing knee or leg lifts. To work your entire core, stand on the knee raise chair, grip the handles on the arm rests and lift your legs to a 90-degree angle with your body. Slowly lower and repeat. This will strengthen your entire core.