We all know the drill. When people are looking for a toned, taut tummy, they turn to sit-ups. While sit-ups do a real number on your rectus abdominis -- the muscle that runs from your ribs to your pelvis, they don't do much to build definition in the rest of your core.
The following moves hit your core from all sides and angles. They will hit your obliques, which run along the side of your body, the transverse abdominis which is deep inside your belly, and the muscles that help to support your spine. They do all this while also blasting your rectus abdominis. Pretty powerful, right?
Aim to do 2 sets of 10 to 12 reps of each exercise, 5 days a week and you will be well on your way to the tummy of your dreams!
Knee Circles
A. Lie on back with arms resting at sides. Raise feet into the air and bring knees over rib cage.
B. With abs contracted and belly pulled in toward spine, slowly lower knees to side, then circle knees away from you and around to the other side. Complete the circle by bringing knees back to start position. Begin with small circles and increase the size for more of a challenge. Complete one set and repeat in the opposite direction.
Remember, don't arch your back!
[bctt tweet="Ditch The Sit-Ups! Try These 3 Moves For Sleek And Slender Abs"]
Side Chop
A. Hold a 3- to 5-pound medicine ball or dumbbell and stand with feet hip-width apart. Sit back into a half squat, contract left obliques, and twist torso to left, bringing ball to the outside of left leg. Knees should point forward and stay behind toes.
B. As you stand back up, contract right obliques and twist torso to right, sweeping ball up and across body to right. Follow ball with eyes until it's over right shoulder. Return to start. Switch sides and repeat for one rep.
Back Extension
Kneel with hands on floor directly beneath shoulders, and knees directly beneath hips. Contract abs and back muscles, and simultaneously lift and straighten left arm and right leg until they are in line with torso. Hold for 3 seconds and lower. Switch sides and repeat for one rep.
What are your favourite core blasting moves?
Source:
Prevention
