Top 10 Ab Workouts That Actually Work

Abdominal exercises are staples in many fitness routines, but not all of them are created equal. Whether you’re aiming for a stronger core or sculpted abs, it’s essential to understand how each movement targets your muscles. Here’s a breakdown of how the top 10 ab workouts that actually work:

1. Side Plank

The side plank is a powerful move that engages the obliques (the muscles along the sides of your abdomen) while also activating the entire core. By holding the position, you’re improving your stability and strengthening deep core muscles that help with posture and prevent lower back pain. The key is to keep your hips lifted and your body in a straight line from head to heels.

2. Russian Twists

This rotational movement primarily works the obliques, but it also engages the rectus abdominis (your “six-pack” muscles) and the transverse abdominis (the deep core muscles). By twisting your torso while holding a weight or medicine ball, you build strength and stability in your midsection, improving functional movement and balance.

3. Flutter Kicks

Flutter kicks target the lower abs and hip flexors, offering an effective way to engage the lower part of the rectus abdominis. Keeping your legs straight and alternating kicks forces the lower body to work in coordination with your core, helping build endurance and stability.

4. Leg Lifts

Leg lifts are excellent for targeting the lower abdominals. As you raise and lower your legs, the rectus abdominis and hip flexors are activated, but the move also demands coordination and control, which challenges the core and helps improve posture and flexibility.

5. Hollow Hold

The hollow hold is a static core exercise that focuses on overall core strength and stability. By holding a “hollow” position (lying on your back with your arms extended overhead and legs lifted slightly), you activate almost every muscle in the abdominal region, including the deep stabilizing muscles. It’s great for improving overall core endurance.

6. Bicycle Crunch

Bicycle crunches are a dynamic move that works both the upper and lower abdominals while also engaging the obliques. By bringing opposite elbows and knees together in a twisting motion, you simulate a pedaling motion that fires up your core and increases the range of motion compared to traditional crunches.

7. Leg Raises

Similar to leg lifts, leg raises primarily target the lower abs and hip flexors. The difference lies in the way you lift your legs—lifting from a lying position helps isolate the lower part of your core. Leg raises also recruit the transverse abdominis, helping to flatten the stomach and improve overall core strength.

8. Standing Ab Exercises

Standing ab exercises, such as standing crunches or twists, engage the core in a functional way. They target the obliques and the rectus abdominis, but they also incorporate balance and coordination. Because you’re standing, these exercises can also help improve posture and stability, which is great for everyday functional movements.

9. Roll Outs

Ab rollouts, typically performed with an ab wheel, are one of the most challenging core exercises. This movement requires you to extend your body forward while keeping your core tight. The rollouts engage the entire core, especially the deep stabilizers, and also work your shoulders and arms. They’re great for building both strength and control.

10. Crunches (If Done Properly)

Yes, even the classic crunch can still be effective—if done correctly. Traditional crunches target the rectus abdominis (the “six-pack” muscles), but improper form can lead to neck or back strain. The key is to perform them with control, focusing on the abdominal contraction and avoiding pulling on your neck. Done right, they are a great way to build core strength.

REMEMBER: Trust the process! All of these work just as long as you stay consistent. I’m not made of magic 😛