A strong core is much more than just an aesthetic goal — it can help you run faster, lift heavier, sit with a better posture, and help protect your spine from injury. Yet when it comes to sculpting strong abs, not all exercises are created equal. According to Harvard Medical School (opens in new tab), if you have tight hip flexors, crunches, and sit-ups can put a lot of pressure on your lower back. So instead of crunching, this trainer recommends adding these five yoga exercises to your ab routine.