It’s easy to assume that most of us want to achieve a strong core, you might be putting in work at the gym in hopes of getting that sculpted abdomen you’ve always wanted. Don’t skip out on these ab exercises below. You can perform these ab workouts at the gym or in the comfort of your own home.
1. Plank
How To: Start in the push up position, hoist your body off the ground and hold for 30 to 60 seconds. You can also perform plank on your forearms, they should be placed directly below you.
Tip: Focus on creating a straight line with your body, don’t slouch.
2. Bicycle Crunches
How To: Lie down on your back and bend your legs into a 90-degree angle. Place your hands on your head near your ears. Focus on creating a bicycle riding motion with your legs as you crunch up – opposite leg should touch opposite arm.
Tip: Your neck should not be doing any work; you should be lifting with your abdomen.
3. Standing Alternating Toe Touch
How To: Stand up straight and look directly ahead, bring your arms out on either side of you parallel to the floor. Kick your right leg up as if you’re trying to touch your left arm while simultaneously twisting your body so they can meet in the middle. Opposite arm touches or comes close to touching your opposite foot each time.
Tip: Focus on using your leg and core strength to perform a high kick as you reach over with your opposite hand to meet in the middle.
4. Side-to-Side Crunch
How To: Lie down on the floor, bend your knees and plant your feet on the ground. Bring your arms out beside you and move side to side as if your trying to touch your foot.
Tip: Try to swivel at the hips.
5. Scissor Kicks
How To: Lie down on your back and thrust your legs straight up above you. Lower your right leg to the ground and bring it back up as you lower your left leg as if you’re creating a scissor cutting motion.
Tip: Keep the scissor motions slow and controlled, don’t just let your legs drop.
6. Side Plank
How To: Start by lying on your side with your feet stacked on top of each other. Your elbow should be placed directly below your shoulder and your arm should be perpendicular to your body. Hoist your hip up and hold for 30 seconds. Try to slowly work your way up to 60 seconds. Make sure to do each side.
Tip: Keep your core tight and don’t strain your neck.
