This Quick 5-Minute Ab Workout Will Still Seriously Challenge Your Obliques

Time is a precious commodity, and sometimes, finding time to squeeze in physical activity, like a 30-minute HIIT workout, or a group fitness class can be challenging. However, coach Raneir Pollard has an easy solution: a simple five-minute ab workout targeting the obliques. While five minutes may not seem like much, Pollard explains that you can plan to take this quick class after finishing out a longer PS Fit workout. Or you can try it out as a simple way to start the day feeling energized.

This class is set up a bit like exercise snacking as opposed to a longer workout session, making it the perfect time-constrained workout without sacrificing gains. Assisted by Paulyn Baens and Jai Jordan, the session is designed to engage the oblique muscles surrounding the side of the body, which are essential for developing a more strong and stable core.

The class kicks off with a series of windshield wipers, including modifications, and ways to increase the intensity by extending one leg at a time, or both. Next up: crossbody crunch sit ups. The emphasis here is to stay in control of the motion, especially when returning back to the ground, and not to put pull on your neck or head. For an added challenge, Pollard takes the class through a series of crab-like bridge variations, targeting similar oblique muscles across the body, like those also used in a side plank position.

Since this video is short and sweet, it does not include a guided cool down, but we’ve got you covered with this 6-minute cool down from Sweat and Tell. Ultimately, adding in a fun 5-minute oblique workout into your workout routine can be an easy way to mix things up and stay active.

Whether you want to perform at home, in the gym, or on the go, outside, grab a friend and follow this short core work session — without taking up too much time out of your day. For more videos like this, including dance classes, resistance training or more oblique workouts, there are dozens of options available on our PS Fit YouTube channel.

Name: Raneir Pollard

Shirt: Dick’s Sporting Goods

Shorts: Fabletics

Name: Paulyn Baens

Outfit: Old Navy

Name: Jai Jordan

Outfit: Vuori

All Shoes: Asics

Jade Esmeralda, MS, CSCS, is a health and fitness staff writer and a strength and conditioning specialist. A lifelong martial artist and dancer, Jade has a strong passion for strength and conditioning, sports science, and human performance. She graduated with a Master of Science degree in exercise science and strength and conditioning from George Washington University.