September 18, 2015
4 Fun Ab Exercises to a Tighter Tummy That Aren't Crunches
Crunches have stood the test of time as one of the best exercises for getting great abs. But for some people, crunches can be kind of old news. You may ask, "Isn't there another way I can work my core without feeling like I've been there done that over and over again?" If you're indeed looking for a way to switch it up and still tone that tummy, then here is a killer core workout you've got to try.
With only 10 minutes of your time, this routine can work to improve your strength and endurance by working your key muscles. Make sure to do 12 reps of each move with no rest between each exercise.
Rotating Side Plank
- Start in a push-up position.
- Balance on your right hand and extend your left arm toward the ceiling.
- Place your left foot on top of your right, resting on the edges of your feet.
- Hold for 1 to 2 seconds.
- Roll back to center, then balance on your left arm so that you're inside plank facing the opposite direction.
- Hold for 1 to 2 seconds; roll back to center. That's one rep.
- Lie facedown, legs extended, arms out and back about 45 degrees, palms down.
- Contract your glutes, squeeze your shoulder blades together, press your legs into the floor, and lift as much of your torso up as far as you can (this may be just your chest), rotating your arms so your thumbs point to the ceiling.
- Keep your neck straight.
- Pause.
- Return to start position.
- Lie on your back, arms extended toward the ceiling, legs perpendicular to the floor.
- Bend your knees 90 degrees.
- Brace your core so that your back is flat.
- Slowly lower your left arm and right leg simultaneously, your arm reaching toward your head and leg straight, until your lower back starts to lift.
- Return to the starting position and repeat on the opposite side.
- That's one rep.
- Lie on your back, arms out to your sides, palms down, knees bent, and feet flat on the floor close to your butt.
- Squeeze your glutes and raise your hips to create a straight line from your knees to your shoulders.
- Raise and extend your left leg, keeping your hips level. Lower back to start, with your butt on the floor.
- Repeat on the opposite side.
- That's one rep.
What do you think of this 10-minute ab workout?
Source: Prevention