Building washboard abs seems like a very difficult task, but, really, it’s not. It only seems that way because you’ve made up your mind without even trying first.
I remember when I got started with this whole six pack abs thing; I didn’t really get it right away. After much reading, however, I realized ANYONE who had determination and dedication can get totally ripped abs.
Doing targeted abs exercises can certainly get you the abs of your dreams. Combined with a well-balanced diet and frequent fat-burning workouts, targeted abs exercises will get rid of that unwanted flab and sculpt your ab muscles.
As you load up on a good eating strategy and do exercises like running and swimming, remember to do targeted abs exercises 3 to 4 times a week. Building washboard abs can be easy if you follow these simple exercises:
Weighted Sit Ups
You won’t need much for this exercise except for small weights:
- Lie down on your exercise mat, bend your knees slightly, and keep your feet flat on the floor.
- Put the weights on your chest and keep them in place with both hands.
- Lift your upper body slowly while keeping your lower half still.
- Go up to a 45-degree angle and hold that position for as long as you can.
- Slowly lower yourself back down and start all over.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zcHkaMnjz-g[/youtube]
Full Body Crunches
Building washboard abs with full body crunches can get to your goal faster because it works the entire midsection.
- Lie back down on the floor and begin doing regular crunches.
- As your upper body comes up for the crunch, keep your ab muscles tight, and lift your legs off the ground.
- Gradually lower both your torso and legs back to the floor.
Ball Crunches
For this one, you won’t need anything except for an exercise ball.
- Sit on the ball and plant your feet firmly on the ground.
- Without moving your feet, slowly roll back on the ball until your upper body and thighs are parallel to the floor.
- Go up for a crunch while balancing your body with your feet and abdominal muscles.
- Remember to keep those muscles taut.
- Go back down to your original position and repeat the exercise.
Bicycle
- Again, lie flat on the floor.
- Place your hands behind each ear and bring your legs halfway up.
- Begin a cycling motion with your legs, alternately bringing in each leg closer to your pelvis.
- As your right knee comes up, twist your torso so your left elbow touches it. Then, do the same with the other side.
- Once you’ve completed 10 to 15 reps, perform the same exercise while “pedaling” backwards.
20 to 25 reps of each exercise will give both your upper and lower abdominals a great workout. Remember to keep your abdominal muscles tight and drink plenty of water. You’ll soon realize that building washboard abs with these 4 great exercises will become a great habit!