If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and wanted to see shredded abs in the reflection, you’re definitely not alone. A toned, fit stomach is one of the biggest reasons people start working out. It can also be one of the hardest areas of the body to target. Make sure that you’re really up for the challenge if you’re ready to transform your tummy.
You may think that all that’s going to help you are a whole lot of crunches but there are plenty of other, more exciting exercises that can help you tone your abs. Using these exercises combined with a pre-workout supplement, like Mesomorph, will help you make the most of every workout and get the toned stomach you crave.
Surf’s Up
A killer ab exercise that most people neglect to consider is surfing. It’s one of the best kept secrets that surfing helps you build up a strong core. It’s also great for your arms and legs, too. There’s a reason that most surfers have a toned bod and that’s because it takes an incredible amount of fitness to stay level on the waves.
One of the biggest surfing destinations on the planet is, of course, Hawaii. If you’re looking to surf Hawaii the right way, you need to go to the beaches that get the best waves. Laniakea in Oahu and Jaws in Maui are two of the most in-demand surfing destinations on the planet and are great go-tos to get your fix.
Plank Away
Something so simple shouldn’t have such an intense impact on your body, but there’s a reason that fitness buffs around the world incorporate planks into their daily routines. Planks rely heavily on your core to be successful. They use tension to trigger muscle growth while also stabilizing your spine.
Not only are planks an amazing way to get an intense core workout, they also have a ton of other benefits. From thighs, to glutes, to shoulders, and beyond, planks work over key muscle groups throughout your body. While planking your way to the six pack you’ve always wanted, you’ll also be gaining definition in other areas too. Planks are a real workout win-win!
Raise It Higher
Alright, so one crunch-adjacent exercise does make this list but it’s one of the least similar and it’s perfect for sculpting your core: leg raises. Typically, these are done in a captain’s chair (you can find one in nearly any gym) but if you don’t have access or a membership, leg raises can easily be done with pull-up bars as well as ab straps.
There are some key tips to keep in mind with this exercise. One of the most important – and most frequently ignored tips – is to not swing your legs. While you’re still using the same motions, swinging your legs diminishes the effect of the workout. By going more slowly, you increase the tension through your core. And as previously mentioned, tension builds tight abs. Leg raises also do wonders for your obliques as well, so make sure to include them in your routine.
Mix It Up
No matter which core exercises you decide to rely on, there are a few things you always include. Exercises that target multiple muscle groups are your best friends. While you can target muscle groups one by one, it’s easier – and more rewarding – to tackle several at a time. This means you’ll see greater results with similar amounts of effort.
Plus, remember that a rock hard core doesn’t mean workout sessions stuff with repetitions of crunches. Find the exercises that work best with your body, try strength-building activities, and consider incorporating a pre-workout supplement into your routine to help take the “work” out of “workout.” You’ll be on your way to your best body in no time at all.
