Ohand with her handy prop, the magic circle, this might feel like a 30-minute workout.

For instance, she starts on the floor with her legs raised at a 90-degree angle.

Now, as you continue to hold that circle, you engage your upper body as well.

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Your thighs and core are working to keep that circle held in place.

This is an excellent 2-for-1 strategy if you want a challenge but only have around fifteen minutes.

In case you needed any more convincing, the core is an amazing muscle group to engage.

Two young women practicing ballet with a teacher in the dance hall.

physiotherapist, master Pilates instructor, and founder ofGo Chlo Pilates

A well-developed set of core muscles will prevent injury, improve posture, and deliver better balance and coordination.

Strengthening the core will also prevent lower back pain and other hip and knee complications.

De Winter says you could perform the moves without the magic circle.

Woman doing hip exercises

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Cropped image of woman doing lunge yoga pose

Woman in leggings and bra doing Lunge with Arm Extended Up pose hip opener stretch during yoga session in morning at home.

Woman doing arm exercise without weights while sitting on mat at home.

A woman in sports clothes does yoga or gymnastics at home. Daylight. She smiles