by Sofia Moreau

If you’re striving for a stronger core, a defined waistline, or improved balance and stability, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we share some game-changing exercises to help strengthen your abs, obliques, and those vital deep core muscles.

Your Essential Eight: Ab Exercises to Amp Up Your Routine

1. Raised-Knee Crunch

Here’s a classic way to engage your core. Lie on your back, knees raised into a gravity-defying position. Your hands should be near your temples, upper arms in tune with your shoulders. Try it out with 8 to 15 reps, making sure to take your time with each one and avoid sudden moves.

2. Twisting Leg Extensions

This move adds a twist, engaging not just your abs but your upper body, as well and giving your obliques a good workout. Follow the same starting position as the Raised-Knee Crunch, but incorporate a twisting motion by bringing your elbow to your opposite knee while extending the other leg.

3. Rotating Dumbbell Raise

Take your core strength to another level with this vigorous exercise. Seated, with your back at a 45-degree angle, grasp a dumbbell with both hands, then twist from left to right. Keep it up for 8 to 15 reps and observe your progression as your ab control increases.

4. Pivoting Dumbbell Lift

This power-packed move works more than just your abs; it targets your waist, shoulders, and back, too. Grasp a dumbbell and twist upwards, reaching past your shoulder before smoothly sweeping down towards the opposite knee. Do this on both sides for maximum effect.

5. Gym Ball Core Twist

Get stability and a wider range of movement with this gym ball exercise, strengthening your core as you twist your torso while lifting your upper body from the ball. Again, switch sides for a balanced result.

6. Lateral Plank

Why settle for an ordinary plank when you can add more benefits? This move challenges your core muscles and your waist, holding your body in a straight line from head to feet. For an extra challenge, lift your upper arm away from your body.

7. Deep Twist Lie-Down

This exercise is great for lower and side abs. Lying on a mat, extend your arms while keeping your legs together. With your thighs held vertically, twist your legs from side to side.

8. Gym Ball Pikes

This move works wonders for your abs, waist, shoulders, and hip flexors, using a gym ball for a full core workout. Start in a plank-like position with your feet on the gym ball. Bend your knee towards your chest, making sure to keep your upper body stable.

Introducing your abs to these exercises can lead to improved performance in numerous physical activities, not to mention the boost to your overall health and confidence. Go ahead, give them a try and empower your core today.

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