Most athletes and avid exercisers aim to tighten their core muscles. A strong core improves range of motion, increases flexibility and strengthens the back. A flat stomach is another benefit of having strong core muscles. You can develop core muscle strength and get a taut tummy by working all your major abdominal muscles.
Bicycle Crunches
Bicycle crunches train all your major abdominal muscles, including upper, lower and obliques. Lie on your back, clasp your hands behind your head for neck support and raise both legs a few inches off the floor. Alternate bending your knees back and forth like you are riding a bicycle. Rotate your right elbow to your left knee and left elbow to your right knee. Each pair of alternating moves is one repetition. Do four sets of 15 reps.
Rotating Situps
Rotating situps mimic regular situps, but you rotate your upper body from side to side during each lift. Lie on your back and place your feet under a solid piece of furniture in your home to anchor your feet to the floor. Raise your chest up to your knees and twist to one side. Lower to the starting position, raise your chest again and twist to the other side. Do four sets of 15 reps.
Standing Side Bends
This exercise is an efficient alternative to floor abdominal exercises. Place your feet shoulder-width apart, rest your hands on the side of your thighs and lean your body to the left. Slide your left hand down to the side of your left calf, then pull up to the starting position. Repeat on the right side. Do four sets of 15 reps per side.
Cardio Exercise
A flat stomach can only be attained by losing extra flab. There are a variety of cardio exercises that help burn excess fat while strengthening your core muscles. Rowing, bicycling, elliptical training and swimming isolate and strengthen your abdominal muscles and shed fat. Aim for at least 45 minutes of cardio exercise daily.
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