The varieties of ab exercises run the gamut from easy and equipment free, to complex and difficult, using large pieces of equipment. If you do not belong to a gym, do not fret, because there are plenty of simple exercises that work all your major ab muscles and can be done at home.
Basic Crunch
Crunches are one of the simplest yet most effective abdominal exercises that most anyone can do. Lie down on your back, feet hip-width apart, knees bent and hands clasped behind your head for support. Slowly lift your shoulders and torso toward your knees and pull your bellybutton toward your spine. Hold the position for a couple of seconds, then release to the starting position. Do four sets of 20 reps.
Bicycle Crunches
Bicycle crunches begin in the same starting position as basic crunches only they are a little more advanced. Lift your knees toward your chest and alternate them in a circular motion as if riding a bicycle. Simultaneously, touch your right elbow to your left knee and left elbow to your right knee. Repeat this several times in a 30-second set, then rest 30 seconds. Repeat for a total of four sets.
Oblique Crunches
Oblique crunches focus on toning the obliques, the muscles on the sides of your tummy. Lie on your back, with your knees bent, and rest your left ankle just above your right knee. Clasp your hands behind your head and lift your shoulders, angling your right elbow toward your left knee. Hold for a second and release. Do three sets of 15 reps and repeat the exercise on your opposite side.
Torso Twists
Torso twists are a standing exercise that work all your oblique muscles. Set your legs shoulder-width apart and place your hands on your hips. Twist your upper body to the right side, bring it back to center, twist to the left side and bring it back to center. If you wish to increase the intensity, grab two dumbbells and place your hands out to your sides, approximately 3 inches from your thighs and hold steady as you twist from side to side. Do three sets of 15 reps.
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