Stomach toning exercises are often done with fitness equipment like medicine balls, exercise balls, ab slings and slant boards. If you are stuck at home with no gym membership and no fitness tools, you have nothing to worry about. You can still tone your midsection with body weight and creativity. The muscles of your stomach are the upper and lower rectus abdominis and obliques.
Scissor Kick
Scissor kicks work your lower abs and they are done from a face-up position. Lie on your back with your hands under your lower back, head elevated off the floor and legs raised approximately 12 inches. In a steady motion, move your legs to your sides so they are in a "V" shape and move them back toward each other. When doing this, crisscross your right over your left. Steadily move your legs back out, bring them back together and move your left over top of your right. Continue to alternate back and forth for 15 to 20 repetitions.
Side Bends
Side bends work your obliques, which are found on the sides of your ribcage. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, raise your right arm straight in the air and place your left arm straight down at your side. In a steady motion, bend laterally to your left as far as possible and come back up. After doing 15 to 20 reps, switch sides. When bending, slide your hand down the side of your thigh.
Bicycle Crunches
Bicycle crunches work your upper and lower abs and obliques. Lie on your back with your legs elevated, knees bent 90 degrees and shins parallel to the floor. After placing your hands on the sides of your head, lift your shoulders off the floor so you are looking forward. Steadily move your left elbow and right knee toward one another while extending your left leg. Quickly change directions and repeat on your other side. Continue to go back and forth in a steady, cycling motion for 15 to 20 repetitions.
Planks
Planks work your abs while strengthening your wrists and shoulders. Lie on your stomach with your hands under your shoulders and your toes hip-width apart behind you. In a controlled motion, push yourself up, lift your hips and tighten your abs to form a straight back. Hold this position for 45 to 60 seconds. If this is too difficult, start off doing planks on your forearms.
V-ups
A V-up works your upper and lower abs simultaneously. Lie on your back with your arms extended overhead and legs straight. In a steady motion, lift your arms and legs off the floor and move them toward each other while balancing on your butt. When doing this, try to touch your hands to your toes. Slowly lower yourself back down and repeat for 15 to 20 repetitions. When lowering your arms and legs, stop just shy of the floor to keep resistance on your abs.
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