As she consistently upholds her physical fitness even years following her retirement, fans are intrigued by Serena Williams’ exercise regimen. Recently, the American icon shared a video of herself performing squats. This type of core training has aided her in swiftly regaining fitness shortly after welcoming her second daughter in August 2023.

Squats play a crucial role in Serena Williams’ fitness regimen

In a January 2024 Instagram video, Williams can be observed performing squats with heavy weights, despite having given birth to her second child just months prior. She mentioned that her current fitness levels may not be at their usual peak, but she is actively striving to reach that point again.

To perform this exercise, begin by placing the barbell on safety pins at a weight that enables you to execute the movement correctly. Engage your abdominal muscles to experience the core ‘burn’ as you lift the barbell off the pins. Execute the squat movement slowly, keeping your legs apart. While this primarily targets the quadriceps and glutes, it also provides significant benefits for the core muscles.

Plank

While a traditional plank may not appear overly challenging, it remains one of the most efficient (and straightforward) exercises for targeting the abdominal muscles. Maintain proper form by keeping your elbows aligned with your shoulders. Aim for at least a 30-second plank per set to see results, but feel free to extend the duration or incorporate variations as you improve and strengthen your core.

Once you’ve mastered the basic plank, advanced modifications such as plank push-ups, side planks, and mountain climbers offer a comprehensive abdominal workout. Professional athletes like Serena Williams incorporate these exercises into their training routine.

Dumbbell side bend

This exercise is perfect for targeting the oblique abdominal muscles. Start by selecting a dumbbell of suitable weight. Then, stand with your feet slightly apart and lean as far as possible to the side where you’re holding the weight. Beginners can perform this exercise while seated. For those more advanced, increase the weight and hold a dumbbell in both hands. Maintain straight legs and a straight back throughout the movement.