Having a sexy, toned six-pack stomach isn't something you can just wish for. You have to put the work in. But that doesn't mean you're resigned to going to the gym and paying to use a bunch of fancy workout equipment. There are plenty of exercises -- other than boring situps -- you can do to develop a rock-hard, six-pack that will impress your friends the next time you're at the beach or by the pool.
V-Sit
Start by sitting on the floor with your feet close together and your legs extended. Lean back so your back is at a 45-degree angle with the floor. Raise your legs up so they are also at a 45-degree angle with the floor. Your body should be forming a "V." Extend your arms out in front of you. Hold this position for 15 to 20 seconds. Rest and repeat three to four times during the course of your six-pack workout.
Paddler
The paddler is an effective exercise that requires only the use of a common household towel or scarf. Grab the scarf in both hands and pull it so it is tight and your hands are about 1.5 feet apart. Lift your feet about a foot off the floor and lean back slightly. Contract your abdominal muscles and begin using the towel as you would a paddle in a canoe. Bring your right hand down to your right side, then both hands over in front of your body, and then your left hand down by your left side. Repeat this motion for 20 to 30 seconds, then rest.
Marine Crunch
You may feel like you're in basic training with this powerful six-pack exercise. Lie on your back with your feet close together. Lift your legs off the ground and point them towards the ceiling. Lift your upper body off the floor and try to touch your toes. At the same time, lift your tailbone off the floor. Hold this position for one count, then lower your upper body and tailbone back down. Repeat 10 to 15 times as part of your abdominal workout.
Windshield Wipers
Another effective and free workout that requires the use of no equipment, the windshield wiper exercise can be performed right in your family room as you watch TV. Lie on your back on the floor. Lift your legs, keeping them close together and your toes pointed, toward the ceiling. Extend your arms out to your sides on the floor with your palms down for support and balance. Slowly move your legs together to the right as far as you can, the same way a windshield wiper would move across the windshield of a car. Hold this position for 5 seconds, then move your legs all the way to the left and hold. Repeat this process for 5 to 10 repetitions on each side, then rest.
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