Using just your body weight and an exercise mat, you can tone up your abs at home. It is helpful to have some equipment, like a stability ball or a medicine ball, but it is not required. Plan to spend at least three days each week working on your abs.
Sit-ups
The basic sit up will work the main section of your abdominals and get you toned up quickly. Begin lying on your back with your knees bent and your arms crossed in front of your chest. Slowly bring your head and shoulders off the ground, and continue curling all the way up until you are in a seated position. Hold a medicine ball to add resistance. Slowly lower back down to the ground, and repeat. Do three sets of eight to twelve repetitions.
Plank
The plank will work all areas of your core; upper, lower and middle abs, sides, and lower back. Begin in full push-up position with your hands placed on the ground directly under your shoulders. Your back should be straight. Hold this position for 30 to 60 seconds, and repeat two more times. You could also perform this exercise with your forearms resting on the ground instead of your palms. Make sure you are squeezing your abs and buttocks throughout the exercise.
Cross Crunch
This exercise can be performed on the ground or a stability ball. Begin on your back with your knees bent and hands placed gently behind your head. Don't interlace fingers, as it causes pulling on the back of the neck. Bring your right elbow to meet your left knee by moving the opposite arm and leg towards each other. Then return to start, and repeat on the other side to complete one repetition. Do three sets of eight to twelve repetitions.
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