We all love to have a good body shape, and abs are an aesthetic that is pleasing to the eye. However, there are some exercises that some of us can’t do because they’re either boring, not that rewarding or hurtful. Yes, some exercises can hurt you (in my case sit-ups hurt my back).
Sometimes, people stick to one exercise and one exercise only, and that won’t do them much good because certain muscles can be triggered with certain movements that one exercise can’t cover. So, here are 10 exercises that can help you tone your abs.
1. Plank
This is definitely one of the toughest simple exercises out there. This exercise is really simple, start by putting your forearms on the ground, then stretch your legs and get them on your toes and start pushing up. Hold the plank position for as long as you can. If you have difficulties starting, then use the position on a ball to help you out at first.
2. The dead bug
This exercise is also simple, but it can do much more than it looks like. First, lie on your back and extend your hands above you, then lift your knees to a 90° angle. Make sure to squeeze your glutes, flatten your back to the floor, and most importantly, breathe out. Keep your back flat and straighten a single leg and hold it steady a little bit above the ground, then go back to the first position and do the same with the other side. Make sure to do a few sets a day.
3. Alternate arm and leg raise
This exercise gives you the possibility to work out your abs and improve your practice. Start on all four limbs, then assure that you are steady and lift your left arm straight in front of you, then extend your right leg backward (while keeping your arm straight). Do the same thing with the two other limbs and loop this exercise for a couple of sets.
4. Scissors
Start flat on your back, then extend both legs in front of you with your heels a little bit above the ground, then put your arms behind your head and lift up your abs. Now, start lifting each leg while lowering the other one alternatively and make sure not to touch the ground.
5. Goblet squat
This exercise can work not only your abs but your legs and back as well. Start by holding a dumbbell by one of the belled ends with both hands. Hold it close to your body and place your feet about hip-width apart, then squat down as far as you can go while making sure that your abs are falling between your knees. Repeat this exercise a couple of times and you’re all set.
