If your usual routine of crunches and situps isn't transforming your abs into a rock-hard six-pack, pump up the volume on your routine. Do abdominal exercises two to three times a week that target every muscle in your midsection. Use a stability ball to add intensity to your routine. Talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise routine, especially if you have health concerns or injuries.
One-Leg Stretch
Tone your upper abdominal muscles with the one-leg stretch. Lie down on a yoga mat or towel on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the ground. As you engage your abdominal muscles, lift your shoulder blades and head off the ground as you tuck your chin into your chest. Breathe in as you lift your left knee into your chest and put your left hand on top of your ankle. Place your right hand on your left knee. Straighten your right leg, then lift it off the ground at about a 45-degree angle. Switch the position of your legs so your right leg is bent and your left leg is straight. At the same time, switch your hands so your right hand is touching your right ankle while your left hand is resting on your right knee. Repeat 10 times on each side.
Stability Ball Crunch
Tone your abs all over with the stability ball crunch exercise. Place a stability ball on the ground, then lie down on top of it so it's centered directly under your back. Place your feet on the ground at the width of your shoulders and keep your knees bent at about a 90-degree angle. Lift your hands up over your head and lock your thumbs with your palms facing the ceiling. Tense your butt and abdominal muscles as you lift your body into a crunch, keeping your arms over your head. Return to the starting position, then repeat 10 times.
Side Crunch
Tighten and tone your obliques with the side crunch exercise. Kneel down on the ground, then lean to your right until you can rest your right palm on the ground, to the right of your body. While maintaining your balance, straighten your left leg while pointing your toes. Bend your left elbow and place your left hand behind your head, rotating your arm so your elbow points up to the ceiling. Lift your left leg up to the height of your hips -- at the same time, straighten your left arm at shoulder height so it makes a parallel line with your left leg. Move your rib cage slightly toward your left hip. Bring your arm and leg back to your original position, then repeat six times. Repeat on the opposite side, then do another set of six reps on each side.
Stability Ball Plank
Strengthen and tighten your entire core with the stability ball plank exercise. Place a stability ball on the ground, then kneel down on the ground in front of it. Bend your forearms and place them on the ball with your hands in relaxed fists. Spread your feet wide, then walk them backward until your entire body is straight. Balance your weight on the balls of your feet, keeping your heels up in the air. Hold this position for one minute as you tense your butt and abdominal muscles.
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