You might rely on the toning power of situps or crunches to achieve a tighter stomach. However, it can be repetitive and even boring to carry out the same exercises on a regular basis. Integrate alternative abs exercises such as the plank to tone and tighten your stomach. Adding a new exercise to your routine will invigorate and inspire you to reach new fitness levels.
The Plank
The plank is an exercise that tones and tightens the stomach muscles. Lie face down on the floor with your back straight and legs extended as if you were about to do a pushup. Lift yourself up on to your elbows and bring yourself up on to your toes. Pull your stomach in tightly. Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. Maintain this position for 20 seconds and repeat three to four times. Do the plank three times a week.
Cable Exercises
Cable exercises tone and strengthen the stomach muscles using weights. Instead of lying down you'll target your abs standing up. Cable exercises are carried out using weight machines. Weight machines have a pulley system that use cables attached to weights. There are usually two cables with a lever attached to each cable. Hold one of the cable levers with both hands, keep your back straight and your arms outstretched in front of you. Tighten your stomach muscles and pull the lever toward you. Repeat this for 10 repetitions and do three sets. Remember to breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. You can also add a rotation whereby you hold the lever in front of you and twist your body from side to side.
Side Twists
Side twists are good for targeting the obliques. Stand up straight keeping your back straight and your hands behind your head like you were about to do a crunch. Twist your body to the left, and then slowly twist your body to the right. Do two sets of 50 side twists three times a week.
Leg Raises
Leg raises tone and tighten the lower abs. To perform leg raises effectively, lie on your back with your back straight on the floor. Extend your feet out in front of you. Keep your arms by your sides and feet together. Raise both legs about 4 inches off the ground, hold for 10 seconds and lower them back down again. Use your stomach muscles to stabilize your body. Lift and lower your legs until you have done 10 to 15 repetitions. Do three to four sets -- and perform leg raises three to four times a week.
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