Core crushing exercises

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Keeping your torso tight is crucial in stabilizing the rest of your body during any exercise.

To create a nice curve in the waist, a flat front and hip-line definition, it's key to work a complete core routine. The muscles act as a girdle to cinches in your entire middle. But that's just part of the formula. It's also important to kick up your cardio and eat healthy, well-balanced meals. When you put it all together, you'll get the core you crave.

Nearly everything you do throughout the day, from lifting your kids or grabbing groceries up a flight of stairs, requires a strong core.

The way I see it, core muscles act like a girdle by keeping everything in place as your arms and legs "do their thing." In this way, strengthening your core muscles also protects your spine.

But crunches aren't really enough. You need to work your entire core.