What Exercises Build Strong Abs

Building stronger abs, in addition to lowering your body fat percentage, can give you that "six-pack" look and help reduce an accumulation of abdominal fat that can lead to health conditions like hypertension and diabetes.

Crunches

Lie flat on the ground with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Put your arms in and "X" across your chest. Lift your torso off the ground until you feel a contraction in your stomach muscles.

Leg Raises

Lie flat on the ground with legs together pointing straight out and hands under your butt. Lift legs 45 degrees off the ground. Lower them down to about 2 inches above the ground without touching.

V-Ups

Lie flat on the ground and lift your legs upward at a 45 degree angle. Crunch your torso upward and reach to the side of your legs with your hands.

Jack Knives

Lie flat on the ground with arms stretched over your head and legs stretched downwards. Bring your legs up and your arms up at the same time and try to touch your feet with your hands when your torso and legs are about the 90 degree mark. You are folding yourself like a suitcase.

Warning

A proper warm-up and cool-down period is necessary when strength training. Consult a physician before participating in any exercise program.

References

• Strength Training Anatomy; Frederic Delavier, 2006