Toning Abs: Advanced

This exercise is extremely challenging — very advanced — from my gymnastics days. It is essential that your abs and back are strong to support the movement.

I like to do this one to intensify and maximize my ab workout, and get those washboard abs!

How to Hit the Abs:

• Sit on the floor, placing your hands on the floor next to you. For support, lean back slightly, bending your elbows.
• Bend your knees and bring them in toward your chest, raising your feet off the floor.
• Extend your legs straight out in front of you, using your abs to keep them off the floor and to control the movement. It's important to keep your abs tight throughout the entire movement.
• Pull your legs back into your chest, then extend them again.

How Many: Begin with one set of 8-12 reps and gradually progress to two sets of 8-12 reps. The most important part of doing your ab exercises is proper form. Don't cheat!

When You'll See Results: Do your crunches at least four days a week and you will see a noticeable improvement in three weeks!