How many more crunches can we really do? They're not the most exciting exercise move, and half the time people do them incorrectly. So what about a totally different type of routine that not only targets and fires up your core more effectively, but is also way more fun?
Below, four ab exercises that may not be familiar, but are sure to target your whole powerhouse.
TWIST
This exercise tones both the front of your core, as well as the obliques and sides of your torso. Start in side plank with bottom leg forward and top leg back, for support. Make sure supporting wrist, elbow, and shoulder are all in line. If this bothers your wrist, modify by going down to your forearm. In one motion, lift backside up to sky, holding abs in tight. Hold and reach behind while rotating and twisting core before returning to your start position. Repeat 10 to 12 times. Repeat on other side.
SINGLE LEG STRETCH
Start by hugging right knee into chest, and then switch to left, pulling knee into shoulder and abs into back. Holding onto left knee, keep shoulders down and roll up to sitting by articulating core, firing up every part of your abs. With control, roll back down onto mat and repeat same side 10 to 12 times, then switch sides.
BUTTERFLY STRETCH
Start lying on back with legs in butterfly position on ground, hands behind head and elbows open to sides. In one quick movement, swoop legs up and torso off ground and into ball shape. This will really fire up your lower abs. Don't pull on your neck and use control on the way up and resistance all the way back down to your start position. Repeat 10 to 12 times.
FROGGY PRESS
Keep head, neck, and shoulders lifted entire time. Start with legs lifted in L-shape, feet turned out, heels pressed together with legs turned out in "frog" position. Fire up inner thighs. Push legs out long in front, squeezing heels together. The farther you lower your legs, the harder this move is. Be sure you don't go too low and use your lower back instead of your core. Bring legs back in and reverse curl pelvis to upper body all while pressing spine into mat. Repeat 10 to 12 times.
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