V Up

Lie on your back with your legs straight and your arms reaching overhead. Keep your back down and brace your core so your torso and legs can move together.

Lift your upper body and legs together so your hands and feet approach each other. Do not swing your legs; think of your core folding your body at the center.

Lower your upper body and legs slowly. Keep your core engaged until just before the floor so your back does not lift.

Focus on folding at your center with your back down rather than lifting high. Bend your knees slightly if your legs take over from your core.

Kicking your legs high or lifting only with your neck strains your back and neck. Start with slightly bent knees and build the fold from your core.

Exhale as you rise and inhale as you lower. A long exhale helps you feel your core fold more deeply.

If a V-up is difficult, start with an alternating version. First choose a range where your back stays on the floor.