How To

How to Strengthen Abs With Medicine Ball Exercises

How to Strengthen Abs With Medicine Ball Exercises
Contributor
By Kate Russell
eHow Contributing Writer
(2 Ratings)

Learn how to use two of the most effective ways to strengthen your abs, in the comfort of your own home, using just a medicine ball and an exercise ball. Before doing these exercises, you should warm your body up with about five minutes of light cardio. You should start by doing one set of about 10-15 repetitions and work your way up to three sets of 10-15 repetitions when your body feels comfortable. This article will explain step-by-step how to do four basic exercises involving a medicine ball that will help strengthen your abs.

From Quick Guide: Medicine Ball Training 101
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Medicine ball
  • Exercise ball

    How to Strengthen Abs With Medicine Ball Exercises

  1. Step 1

    Leg Extensions with Medicine BallPosition the exercise ball under your upper back. Hold the medicine ball over your chest and position your legs at a 90 degree angle. Next, lower your arms behind you while extending your right leg. Return to the start position and repeat with your left leg.

  2. Step 2

    Medicine Ball LungeStart in a lunge position with your left leg in from of you and your knee over your ankle. Holding the medicine ball, lower into a lunge and bring the ball down towards your left hip. Next, straighten your knees and bring the ball straight up overhead and lower back into a lunge, positioning the ball towards your right hip. The movement of the medicine ball will resemble a figure eight. Repeat this exercise on your right side.

  3. Step 3

    All Around CrunchesPosition yourself face-up on the exercise ball and hold the medicine ball in both hands. Start with your body draped over the exercise ball with your arms extended behind you. Contract your abs to lift your upper back off the ball and bring the medicine ball towards your left thigh as you twist to the left. Repeat for 10-15 reps and then switch sides.

  4. Step 4

    Ball BalanceSit straight on the exercise ball with your arms extended on either side of you. Place one foot on the medicine ball, which should be rested in front of you. Once you are stable, lift the opposite foot off the floor and hold it in the air for five seconds. Next, rest it on the medicine ball with the other foot. Hold in this position for about 15 minutes and repeat.

Tips & Warnings
  • For best results, use these exercises with cardio and a balanced diet.
  • As with any exercise, stop immediately if you feel pain or discomfort.
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