Bollywood actress and fitness icon Shilpa Shetty has once again inspired her millions of followers by sharing the core workout routine that helps her maintain her famously sculpted midsection. In a recent Instagram post, Shetty emphasized that achieving defined abs requires more than just genetics; it demands considerable hard work and dedication.
Shilpa Shetty's Go-To Core Workout Routine
Shetty's post, captioned with her being "abs-olutely committed to the burn," detailed three fundamental exercises. She highlighted that these moves are designed to strengthen core muscles, improve abdominal endurance, and enhance definition when paired with a balanced fitness regimen and healthy nutrition.
The actress listed the key benefits of her routine: targeting the rectus abdominis (the main abdominal muscle), increasing core muscle mass for a firmer midsection, improving posture, and boosting overall core strength and muscle definition.
Decoding the Three Core Exercises
The workout demonstrated in her video includes a combination of leg lifts, raises, and crunches.
Leg Lifts: Performed by lying flat, lifting legs toward the ceiling, and slowly lowering them without touching the floor. This movement effectively engages the lower abs and obliques.
Crunches: Executed by lying flat with the back and legs on the ground, lifting the upper body to a seated position, and then lowering back down in a controlled manner.
Fitness consultant Pawan Behal from Shahkot, Punjab, explained the broader impact of such exercises. "Strong core muscles provide better support, decreasing the load on your spine," he stated. He added that they help correct postural imbalances, distribute weight evenly, and prevent strain, thereby reducing the risk of injury. "Flexible muscles allow for greater freedom of movement and less tension in your back," Behal noted.
Why Core Strength is Fundamental
Anamika Lalwani, Founder of Lit Fit Dance & Fitness Studio, underscored the critical importance of a strong core. She described it as the body's powerhouse, foundational for all movement—from sitting and standing to bending and lifting.
"It's not just about achieving defined abs; it's about stability, balance, and spine protection," Lalwani explained. "Core strength helps prevent injuries, improves posture, and enhances performance in workouts and everyday activities."
Another Core-Strengthening Move from Shilpa's Arsenal
This is not the first time Shetty has shared her fitness secrets. Previously, she showcased herself performing deep squats with dumbbells to strengthen her core and improve mobility.
Prerna Khetrapal, Founder of Kaizen Wellness in Goa, elaborated on the benefits of deep squats. She said the exercise strengthens the quadriceps, glutes, hips, hamstrings, and ankle stabilizers while enhancing lower-body mobility. "Deep squats support knee health, improve posture, increase functional strength, and can help reduce lower-back discomfort by opening the hips and lengthening the spine," Khetrapal explained.
Essential Precautions Before You Begin
Fitness experts unanimously advise caution. Individuals with severe knee, hip, or lower back pain should consult a doctor or a trained professional before attempting these exercises.
Khetrapal recommended that movements should be slow and controlled, with a neutral spine, heels grounded, and knees aligned with toes. "Range of motion can be reduced in case of previous injuries or tightness until the body develops adequate strength and mobility," she added.
Shilpa Shetty's disciplined approach to fitness continues to motivate many, proving that a strong, healthy body is built on consistent effort and smart, safe exercise practices.
