sit ups

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:

1. Lie down on your exercise mat, bend your knees slightly, and keep your feet flat on the floor.
2. Put the weights on your chest and keep them in place with both hands.
3. Lift your upper body slowly while keeping your lower half still.
4. Go up to a 45-degree angle and hold that position for as long as you can.
5. 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.

1. Lie back down on the floor and begin doing regular crunches.
2. As your upper body comes up for the crunch, keep your ab muscles tight, and lift your legs off the ground.
3. 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.

1. Sit on the ball and plant your feet firmly on the ground.
2. Without moving your feet, slowly roll back on the ball until your upper body and thighs are parallel to the floor.
3. Go up for a crunch while balancing your body with your feet and abdominal muscles.
4. Remember to keep those muscles taut.
5. Go back down to your original position and repeat the exercise.

Bicycle

1. Again, lie flat on the floor.
2. Place your hands behind each ear and bring your legs halfway up.
3. Begin a cycling motion with your legs, alternately bringing in each leg closer to your pelvis.
4. 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!