Willow Wellness Studio instructor Allison Walacavage demonstrates the toe touch exercise.

Heather Glidden | Contributor

Today we’ll practice another exercise that emphasizes abdominal control: Toe touches.

Starting position: Lying on your back with your arms resting by your sides. Tighten your abdominal muscles so that your low back doesn’t pull forward, and lift your legs up to 90 degree angles so your shins make a tabletop position.

Exercise: Keep your abdominal muscles tight so the low back doesn’t arch upward, exhale and slowly touch the toes of one foot down to the floor. Don't put any weight on the toes as they touch. Then inhale to lift the leg and return to your starting position The slower you do this exercise, the more challenging it will be. You can also add challenge by touching the toes further away from you. Alternate sides with each repetition and complete a total of 12 toe touches. Make sure your arms and shoulders stay relaxed — keep the work in your abdominals.

Tune in tomorrow for an exercise that tones the butt and thighs!

Heather Glidden owns Willow Wellness Studio in downtown Ann Arbor where she teaches Gyrotonic and Pilates and practices massage. She is passionate about helping people to learn more about their bodies. Got a body question? Email her at info@WillowWellnessStudio.com and she will do her best to answer it or find someone who can!