Super Simple Exercises To Get Abs: My Top Five Picks

To be honest, I started abs workouts to get those six-packs that the actors have in the movies and the fitness guys have on YouTube or other social media. It can be really frustrating if you start abs workouts with that goal, as it’s the hardest thing when you try to get packs as a beginner or just as a sedentary person who does workouts just to keep fit. In reality, abs workouts have numerous benefits besides just looking good in the mirror naked. When you build your core and strengthen it, you have better flexibility and mobility, and this can help with almost every task you do, from normal sitting on the chair to walking around.

Now, after almost 2 years of abs exercises, I have visible packs, but all these years I felt my abdominal muscles get stronger, and that should be the main goal of abs workouts. Ultimately, making six-packs visible has no extra benefits other than showing off, but building a strong core does. And let me reveal the secret: what stops you from getting those abs visible, despite making them strong and developing separate six-packs (of course, if you’re doing abs exercises regularly for months), is your diet, with a high carb and fat intake.

Understanding the Core

Before diving into the exercises, it’s important to understand what the “core” really is. The core means not just your abs but also your lower back, obliques, and hips. A strong core improves your overall stability, balance, and posture, making daily activities easier and reducing the risk of injury.

The Role of Diet

As mentioned, diet plays a crucial role in making those abs visible. You can have the strongest core, but if it’s covered by a layer of fat, those six-packs will remain hidden. It was my case for years. Focus on a balanced diet that includes lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Stay hydrated and avoid processed foods, sugary snacks, and excessive alcohol.

Simple Abs Workouts

Here are some simple yet effective abs workouts that can help you strengthen your core and work towards visible six-packs. But if you don’t hurry to get a six pack, doing any 3-4 of them could be enough. I personally do bicycle crunches, leg raises and Russian twists, each for 3 sets with 40-50 reps each set and I’ve got hard abdominal muscle within a month. 

1. Crunches

How to Do It:

– Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the ground.

– Place your hands behind your head, keeping your elbows out.

– Use your abdominal muscles to lift your upper body towards your knees.

– Lower back down slowly.

Benefits:

– Targets the upper abs.

– Easy to perform anywhere without equipment.

 2. Planks

How to Do It:

– Get into a push-up position with your elbows bent at 90 degrees and weight on your forearms.

– Ensure your body stays in a straight line from head to heels.

– Maintain this position for as long as possible.

Benefits:

– Engages the entire core.

– Improves stability and endurance.

 3. Leg Raises

How to Do It:

– Lie on your back with your legs extended.

– Position your hands beneath your glutes for support.

– Lift your legs up towards the ceiling until your hips are off the ground.

– Lower them back down slowly.

Benefits:

– Targets the lower abs.

– Helps improve lower back strength.

 4. Bicycle Crunches

How to Do It:

– Lie on your back with your hands behind your head and elbows out.

– Raise your knees to form a 90-degree angle.

– Alternate bringing your elbows to the opposite knee while extending the other leg.

Benefits:

– Works the obliques.

– Enhances coordination and balance.

 5. Russian Twists

How to Do It:

– Sit on the floor with your knees bent and feet lifted off the ground.

– Hold your hands together or grip a weight in front of you.

– Rotate your torso to the right and then to the left, while keeping your core engaged.

Benefits:

– Strengthens the obliques.

– Improves rotational strength and stability.

Tips for Effective Abs Workouts

Consistency is Key:  Make abs workouts a regular part of your fitness routine. Aim for 3-4 times a week.

Focus on Form: Proper form is essential to avoid injury and get the most out of each exercise.

Mix It Up: Incorporate a variety of exercises to target different parts of your core.

Rest and Recover: Give your muscles time to recover to prevent overtraining and fatigue. I got better results when I shifted from 6 days to 4 days of abs workout.

Also Read: Should I Do Abs Workout Everyday?

Conclusion

While the quest for six-packs can be motivating, the true value of abs workouts lies in building a strong and functional core. By combining regular exercise with a healthy diet, you can achieve a well-defined and powerful midsection. Remember, it’s not just about aesthetics; a strong core contributes to overall health and well-being. So, keep at it, stay patient, and enjoy the journey to a stronger you.