TikTok Core Exercises: Which Ones Are Worth It and Which Are Bunk?

TikTok has become more than a social platform. It’s a hub for fitness inspiration. Millions of short workout videos promise a “flat stomach” or “shredded abs” in just a few moves. But with so much content flooding your feed, how do you know which core exercises are worth trying and which ones are complete bunk?

At BetterlifeBioscience, we’re passionate about blending science with lifestyle. So let’s break down the most viral TikTok core workouts, separating the effective from the overrated.

TikTok Core Exercises Worthwhile

Why Core Training Matters

Before we dive in, let’s remember: your core isn’t just about six-pack abs. It includes deep muscles that support posture, stability, and overall movement. A strong core helps with:

Injury prevention
Better athletic performance
Improved posture and back health
Functional strength for daily activities

TikTok Core Exercises That Are Worth It

1. Plank Variations

Why they work: Planks activate the entire core, including the transverse abdominis, obliques, and lower back.
TikTok spin: Plank challenges with shoulder taps, hip dips, or reach-throughs actually add value.

2. Dead Bug

Why it works: Great for beginners and advanced athletes, dead bugs train coordination and deep core stability.
TikTok spin: When shown correctly, this is one of the smartest viral core exercises.

3. Russian Twists (with Control)

Why they work: Twists target obliques and rotational strength.
Caution: Many TikTok versions go too fast. Slow and controlled is where the benefit lies.

4. Leg Raises / Hanging Knee Raises

Why they work: Engage the lower abs, hip flexors, and grip strength if hanging.
TikTok spin: These exercises are legit — as long as you avoid swinging.

TikTok Core Exercises That Are Bunk

1. Standing Side Bends with Weights

The problem: They don’t “melt fat off your sides” — they mostly strain your lower back.

2. Excessive Crunch Challenges

The problem: 1000 crunches won’t burn belly fat. They also ignore the deeper stabilizing muscles of the core.

3. Random “Ab Gadgets” Promoted by Influencers

The problem: Most gadgets focus on surface-level burn and rarely deliver functional results.

4. Hyper-Extended Backbends as Core Work

The problem: These can cause more harm than good, stressing the spine instead of strengthening the core.

The Science: Core Workouts Alone Won’t Burn Belly Fat

Here’s the truth: you can’t spot reduce fat. Visible abs come from a mix of:

Strength training (full body + core)
Nutrition that supports fat loss
Consistency and recovery

Core exercises are valuable, but they’re not magic. This is where peptides, mindset, and lifestyle also play a role in building the body you want.

Key Takeaways

TikTok can be a fun source of workout ideas, but not everything that trends is effective.

Worth it: planks, dead bugs, Russian twists (controlled), and leg raises.
Bunk: side bends with weights, endless crunches, gimmicky gadgets, and unsafe backbends.
Real results come from a mix of smart training, good nutrition, and holistic wellness.

Conclusions

TikTok fitness trends will come and go, but science based training always wins. At BetterlifeBioscience, we believe in combining smart movement, nutrition, and peptide science to help you build lasting strength and confidence.