Appears in642 Workouts*

Hundred

Strengthen your core with the Hundred! This Pilates classic builds endurance and stability. Feel the burn in just 100 reps!

The Hundred mainly works the core, with help from the back. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.

Hundred demo video 2
Ms. Grey
JustGains_XX
@JustGains_XX

Optional Equipment

Yoga Mat
Yoga Mat

Hundred Muscles Worked

Primary

Abdominals (rectus abdominis); Deep Core (transverse abdominis)

Secondary

Hip Flexor (iliopsoas); Boxer Muscle (serratus anterior)

How to do the Hundred

  1. Begin by lying flat on your back on a comfortable, supportive surface.

  2. Engage your core by drawing your belly button towards your spine and slightly tucking your pelvis.

  3. Lift both legs to a tabletop position, with your knees bent at approximately a 90-degree angle.

  4. Exhale to lift your head, neck, and shoulders off the mat, reaching your arms long by your sides.

  5. Extend your legs outwards at an angle where you can maintain a strong core without arching your back (the lower the legs, the more challenging the exercise; adjust as needed).

  6. Begin pumping your arms up and down in a small range of motion with energy, synchronized with your breath.

  7. Inhale for a count of five arm pumps and exhale for a count of five arm pumps, continuing this breathing pattern.

  8. Keep your gaze towards your thighs and maintain a scooped abdomen.

  9. Complete the exercise for a total of 100 arm pumps, equating to 10 full breaths (inhale and exhale).

Ensure that your movements are controlled and deliberate, focusing on keeping your core engaged throughout the exercise. Adjust the difficulty by varying the angle of leg extension and the depth of your shoulder lift as necessary. Always prioritize form over the number of reps. If you feel any strain in your lower back or neck, modify the exercise by keeping your head down or placing your feet on the ground.

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Hundred FAQs

What muscles does the Hundred work?

The Hundred mainly works the core, with help from the back. The main muscles are the rectus abdominis and transverse abdominis.

What equipment do you need for the Hundred?

None. The Hundred is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.

What are some Hundred variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Bicycle, Bottom-Up, Half Sit-Up and Hollow Body Hover.

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