Shaping your midsection can be easier than you think. Because these muscles have a high recovery rate compared to other larger muscle groups in your body, you can exercise your abdominal muscles every day to get lean, tight abs fast. If you want to tone and strengthen your tummy, try these exercises at least five days a week.
Crunches
Crunches are popular because of their effectiveness and simplicity. Lie on your back with your knees bent. Fold your arms across your chest, and keep your chin from resting on your chest. While tightening your abdominal muscles, raise your upper body off the floor until your upper body creates a 90-degree angle with the floor. Slowly return to your original position. Perform three sets of 10 repetitions. This exercise can also be modified to target your obliques. As you lift your upper body, twist your torso to either side. For maximum results, hold this position for three seconds, keeping your abdominal muscles squeezed and tight.
Canoe
Many abdominal exercises can be performed while standing up, helping to prevent neck strain. Stand with your feet 3 feet apart, bending slightly at the knees. Clasp your hands together, arms slightly outstretched in front of your chest. As if rowing in a canoe, bring your clasped hands to the lower left side of your torso, at hip level, and push your clasped hands as though you are pushing a rowing oar behind you. Return your hands to the original position. Perform three sets of 10 repetitions to each side of your body.
Standing Crunch
Stand with your feet in line with your hips. Raise your right arm straight above your head. Straighten your left leg to the side, pointing your toes toward the floor. Bring your right elbow down in front of you as you raise your left knee until the two touch. Squeeze and tighten your abdominal muscles during this movement. Return your arm and leg to the original position. Repeat this move for 10 repetitions, alternating sides, for three sets.
Elbow Plank
Move onto the floor and position your body in a pushup stance, but place your elbows and forearms on the ground. Put the weight of your upper body onto your forearms, keeping your stomach tight and firm. Be sure that your body is positioned in a straight line from head to toe. Hold this stance for at least 10 seconds. Rest for 30 seconds and repeat. Work your way up to holding this stance for three minutes.
Caution
If you have a history of health conditions, consult your doctor before performing these exercises. If you experience any unusual symptoms during or after performing exercise, contact your health-care provider.
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