Whether she’s ruling the North or preparing for a raid of ancient tombs, Sophie Turner is once again making headlines for her physique that exudes strength. The actress has again turned heads with a sneak peek into what’s to come regarding a major role and the transformation she’s undergone.

Recently, Turner has revealed a sneak peek of herself as Lara Croft in the Prime Video series of Tomb Raider, which is being developed by Phoebe Waller-Bridge. The Game of Thrones actress has been quite open about how challenging her training was, which has certainly paid off, especially when it comes to her core strength.

For anyone who feels inspired to reassess their own approach to core training, a leading Pilates instructor demonstrates how a successful and sustainable approach to core training can be incorporated into daily living.

Sophie’s Training Regimen

In the new Tomb Raider series, Turner is the third actor to embody the legendary female character, preceded by Angelina Jolie in 2001 and Alicia Vikander fifteen years later.

On the Julia Cunningham Show earlier in the year, Turner explained the level of physical investment needed for the role:

“We have been doing eight hours a day, five days a week, since last February,” she said. “It’s been a lot. Then, I also realized it’s easier to build muscle if you have any experience working out, which I didn’t, so it’s taken me months and months to get in shape.”

Building Better Results

While Turner’s schedule may appear to be overwhelming, core training does not have to be all-consuming to be effective. According to Jade Edwards, Pilates instructor and founder of Coconut Wellness Studios, the key to getting the most out of core training is to shift the point of emphasis rather than trying to do more.

“If you want better results – visually and physically – the biggest change is stopping the chase for the burn and starting to organize the center of the body,” says Edwards.

“In Pilates, the core is comprised of the abdominal muscles, back, pelvic floor, and hip muscles. ‘When these muscles engage, the waistline is naturally more defined and supported.’”

Pilates Exercises Focused

For those wanting to implement a Lara Croft-type core exercise routine, Edwards recommends traditional Pilates movements that work the full center, rather than just the surface muscles.

“The Hundred is an old-school exercise that is great for building endurance and definition,” she continues. “When performed properly, it can help to strengthen the entire abdominal wall while at the same time enhancing circulation and breathing function.”

She also emphasizes the importance of the single-leg stretch for pelvic support as well as the roll-up for back flexibility.

“This helps correct posture and loosen stiffness,” Edwards continues. “This alone can alter the appearance and sensation of the body.”

Strength Beyond Aesthetics

A strong core has nothing to do with muscle definition. It plays a very important role in everyday functioning, as Edwards explained.

“If basic exercises are incorporated on a regular basis, it not only reduces the chance of injury to the spinal column, but it also helps to promote balance as well,” says Jeni.

Core exercises are an excellent way to keep your back strong and

“From the aesthetic perspective, it provides definition without mass. From the health perspective, it provides support for building strength, mobility, and confidence, which is what keeps people moving in the long run.” In Turner’s situation, the application of that strength is obviously translated on screen. For others, the lesson is simpler: core work can be just as strong off stage as it is in the limelight.