We all want that sexy, slim figure. Whether you want abs or not, you can’t deny looking into the mirror and seeing a flat stomach would be a great feeling.
You’ll be able to try better clothes and feel more confident in a bikini over summer. However, how many times have you bought ineffective products due to false marketing? I don’t know about you, but we’ve all made a small doghouse from wasted lipstick glued together…
Well, the fitness industry is no different – many workouts are advertised as ‘the best for…’ almost everything. This is why so many of us work hard towards our fitness goals, but fall flat on our face.
For this reason, we’ve put together the best exercises and products to help you get solid-looking abs – fast!
1. Side Plank
You might be thinking, “what makes this better than the ‘normal’ plank?”. Well, you’re only supporting your weight with your feet and arm – instead of 4 points of contact (leading to more strain on your core).
To perform the side plank, lie on one side, then use your elbow to lift your body from the floor. Hold this position for 30-45 seconds, then switch sides and repeat.
What to do:
- Hold side plank for 30-45 seconds
- Switch side and repeat for 4 sets
- 1-minute rest between sets
2. Kettlebell Swing
This is a great weighted exercise to melt your stomach fat – perfect for those wanting a flat tummy.
To perform the kettlebell swing, start in a squat position with the weight between your legs. Then propel the weight forwards and upwards until your arms are outstretched in front of you.
Bring the weight back to the original position and finish in the squat position. You want to repeat this for 4-6 sets (increasing the weight and sets as you progress).
What to do:
- 4 sets of 10 reps
- Hold the squat position for 5 seconds before swinging back up
- 1-minute rest between sets
3. Bicycle Crunch
Admit it, you were waiting to see crunches on this list…but these aren’t just your average crunches.
In fact, a study conducted in San Diego State University showed that bicycle crunches stimulated the most muscles around your mid-section – helping you get that flat stomach!
To perform this exercise, start in a normal crunch position, then touch your right elbow with your left knee. Alternate this movement of touching your elbows to the opposite knees for 30 reps (of 4 sets)
What to do:
- 4 sets of 30 bicycle crunches
- 1-minute rest between sets
4. Walking Plank
Again, this is better than the ‘normal’ plank as it puts your core under more tension.
To perform the walking plank, start in a press-up position and proceed to go down to your elbows, keeping your feet in the same position. Then return to the starting position to finish your first rep. Repeat this 10 times, for 4 sets.
What to do:
- 4 sets of 10 reps
- 1-minute rest between sets
5. Bench Crunch
Bench crunches are great for targeting your lower abs. They bring in your lower abdominal by keeping constant tension on your mid-lower section. Make sure to have a full range of motion while doing bench crunches to reap the maximum benefits of this exercise.
Variation: Weighted bench crunches are a great way of adding resistance to this movement. Breathe out on top of the movement and breathe in while coming down. This will help in squeezing the abdominal muscles and getting a tighter midsection.
What to do:
- 3 sets of 15 reps
- 45 seconds rest between sets
6. Mountain Climber
Mountain climbers are a great exercise to isolate your lower abs. This exercise is incredibly effective in contracting and stretching the lower abdominal muscles, which are otherwise rarely recruited throughout the day.
From a high plank position, start with bringing your right knee toward your chest between your hands. As you return your right leg back to the starting position, bring your left leg to your chest. Alternate between both the legs and complete ten reps on both sides.
What to do:
- 4 sets of 10 reps
- 30 seconds rest between sets
7. Scissor Kicks
Not all exercises on this list are going to be pleasant to do. And you’ll find the harder the exercise, the better the results.
Scissor kicks are a bodyweight exercise that you can perform anywhere. No gym or equipment needed.
Doing these will also greatly help strengthen your lower back, quads, and your abs. It also loosens up your hips and hamstrings. And who doesn’t want mobile hips?
It might take a beginner some time to perfect this exercise, but once they do, they’ll know how strong their core has gotten.
What to do:
- 4 sets of 15 reps
- 1-minute rest between sets
8. Lying Leg Raise Finisher
The last exercise on this list that’ll be sure to get you a flat stomach! After that last plank, you’ll be glad to know you’re lying down for this one…
To perform the lying leg raise, lie flat on your back on a mat or bench. Place your hands under your glutes with your palms facing downwards, then lift your legs while keeping them as straight as possible.
What to do:
- 3 sets of 15 reps
- 1-minute rest between sets
Conclusion
Now you know the best exercises to get a flat stomach, all you need is a good diet, hard work & determination.
Ultimately, you shouldn’t underestimate the importance of nutrition when it comes to shredding body fat. But a great & enjoyable workout routine can help you burn those extra calories to get you toned and to your fitness goals, faster.
