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There are few people who wouldnt prefer to have more chiseled abs.
And having astrong coreimproves posture,functional strength, movement efficiency, and physical performance.
In fact, fitness experts say that core strength is at the foundation of most movement patterns.
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So it should come as no surprise that there are countless exercises for the abs.
But which ones actually work?
Should we be doing crunches?
Jeanette Jenkins
Using ab machines at the gym?Plankingfor minutes on end?
The options can feel bewildering.
“Its specifically formulated for our hydration needs when we exercise.
Jeanette Jenkins
You just mix with water and youre ready to go,” she says.
Myths
Many people want to work their core in an attempt to get abs.
The layer of fat that accumulates over your stomach has to be reduced by proper diet, she explains.
Jeanette Jenkins
In other words, you cant spot-reduce fat on your body.
Having a strong core also helps prevent and easelower-back pain.
Ready to get started?
Jeanette Jenkins
Basic crunches, step aside.
Jenkins demonstrates 15 of the best exercises for the toned and strong abs youve always wanted.
It also strengthens the extensor muscles in the lower back.
Jeanette Jenkins
Three-Point Plank
This plank variation lifts your leg instead of your arm.
Youll get some added work for your glutes and hamstrings, too.
Side Plank
This is another anti-rotational exercise, but the focus here is on your obliques.
Jeanette Jenkins
These are the side muscles of your abs that help with bending and rotational movements.
Its all about the contraction of the abs.
Sprinter Sit-Ups
This move works those hard-to-target lower abs, as well as yourhip flexors.
Jeanette Jenkins
It also strengthens the lower back, glutes, shoulders, and abs.
Back Extensions
Your back is part of your core.
You should feel this exercise in the small of your back, notes Martin.
Jeanette Jenkins
The slower the movement, the more challenging this exercise will be.
Harvard Medical School.The real-world benefits of strengthening your core.
Published January 24, 2012.
Jeanette Jenkins
2019;14(3):e0213158.
Published 2019 Mar 8. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0213158
Jeanette Jenkins
Jeanette Jenkins
Jeanette Jenkins
Jeanette Jenkins
Jeanette Jenkins
Jeanette Jenkins
