Ab Workout Moves

A six-pack doesn't just give your stomach a ready-for-the-beach look; a slimmer stomach also puts you at less risk of injury, reduces your risk of various kinds of disease and can help you enjoy better sex. If you want a washboard stomach, several exercises can help you target and tone this area. Pair these workouts with a general cardio regimen, such as running, for the fastest results.

Myotatic Crunch

This version of the crunch leverages both your reclining and raised position, focusing your muscles into a stronger contraction for stronger abs. Lie down on a small exercise ball and stretch your arms out above your head. Your arms should be level with your ears. Lower yourself all the way back so that your head is almost touching the ground, then raise yourself into a regular crunch position. Pause at each point of the exercise for two seconds and repeat 10 times.

Hanging Crunches

Install a pull-up bar in your bathroom or bedroom door, or visit a school playground or gym. Grab the bar with your palms facing away from you. Pull yourself up as if you were doing a traditional pull-up. Keep your knees hanging down. Once you've pulled yourself up, raise your legs and pull your knees toward your chest. Pause for two seconds, then lower your body back down. This "activates more nerves in your midsection," says "Men's Fitness" magazine, which gives you "the most effective abdominal workout there is."

Crunches

Crunches are the traditional, most basic ab workout and require no special equipment or fitness gear. Several strategies can help ensure you're getting the best ab exercise. Lie flat on the ground with your feet flat on the ground, knees bent at approximately 45 degrees and hands behind your head. Raise your upper torso six inches off the ground without moving your hips, legs or feet. Tighten your abs as you raise yourself, pushing your belly button outward.

Plank Roller

Get on the ground, face down, with your thighs resting on a foam exercise roller and your forearms on the floor, elbows bent. Your elbows should be square below your shoulders and bent at a 90-degree angle. Keep your back straight. As your body tries to stabilize itself, your abs go into overdrive to help hold your torso straight. For the best results, hold this position for 30 seconds or longer.