1. Stretch Back and Relax
The supine stretch is so named because you do it in a reclining position, which stretches your abs and back. Rest your upper back against the exercise ball and support your lower body with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Your stomach should be flat as a board, and your legs should be stiff and straight. Lift your hands above your head and stretch back as you roll slightly forward. This movement stretches your upper abs. Bring your hands to your waist so your palms meet and roll forward to stretch the lower abs.
2. Over a Barrel
Lay face-up on your exercise ball with the ball centered comfortably against your back. Stretch your arms above your head and roll back as far as you can to stretch your abs. See if you can stretch far enough to place your hands on the floor. If you suffer from a bad back, you may not be able to stretch very far; in fact, you may opt to skip this stretch altogether. If you don't have back issues, this is a great way to stretch out and elongate your abs, especially after you've finished an ab workout.
3. Show Off That Badonkadonk
It may feel awkward to stick your behind as far into the air as you can, but the pike stretch is great for your abs. Position yourself so you facing the floor and use your hands to stabilize yourself. Place the ball just below your knees. Keep your hips, back and shoulders straight. Pull your feet forward on the stability ball, lifting yourself into an inverted V-shape. As you do this, keep your hips, back and shoulders in a straight line. When you've gone as high as you can, roll back to your original position and repeat this process 8 to 10 times.
4. Sexy Strong Abs
Using the exercise ball is a way to challenge your ab muscles while you stretch. As you go through the motions, you continuously adjust to the movement of the exercise ball. Stretching with the ball helps elongate the abdominal muscles, releasing tension as you warm up or cool down after vigorous exercise. Stretching your ab muscles helps increase your range of motion and flexibility. It won't take long to see your stomach firm up, and you'll soon notice a longer, leaner profile once you make these stretches a part of your abs routine. Healthier abs also improve your posture, which helps you balance and reduces the chance you'll suffer lower back injuries.
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