Whether your goal is to achieve more advanced yoga poses and arm balances or to maximize your yoga workout, core strength is key. Listed below are the some of the best poses to build core muscles.

1) Phalakasana or Plank

Keep your arms vertical and pull up using your lower stomach. Make sure your elbows and wrists are directly under your shoulders.

2) Ustrasana or Camel

Traditionally this pose is used to increase spinal flexibility but it also works to stretch and strengthen your core. Kneel with your knees hips-width apart and lean back reaching for your heels. Press your hips forward to maximize the stretch.

3) Ardha Pincha Mayurasana or Dolphin

From down dog lower your forearms to the ground, tuck in your toes and lift your hips.

4) Tri Pada Adho Mukha Svanasana or Three Legged Downward-Facing dog

Again start with down dog, then shift your weight to your hands and lift your back leg. Try not to focus on how high your leg is but rather holding your form.

5) Knee-to-arm chaturanga

This is not a pose but a rotation. Start in a plank then bend your elbows, lowering your upper body. Reach for your elbow with your knee and hold then repeat.

6) Navasana or Boat

This is the go-to yoga pose for abs. To maximize the workout lift from lying flat on the floor.

7) Floating Trikonasana or Triangle

This pose strengthens the abs, obliques and back.

8) Virabhadrasana III or Warrior 3

This pose also works to strengthen your legs and improving balance and concentration

9) Salabhasana or Locust

This is a great pose to end your core workout by stretching out the abdominals. Your legs can be lifted along with your upper body or relaxed depending on your ability.