Summer is coming and so are the days when you’ll wear skimpier clothing and maybe even a swimsuit. It’s time to start working on firming up those abs. Here are three easy exercises to work on that tummy area. Be sure to begin each exercise period with a few simple stretches which simulate the motions of the exercises. This warms up the muscles and prevents injury. Stretches can be leg swings, arm circles, alternating toe touches, knee highs and trunk twists.
Set aside 15-20 minutes daily for these three exercises to tone the abs. Use an exercise mat or lie on a carpet. Do ten to fifteen reps for each exercise. Check with your doctor before beginning any exercise regimen.
The Bicycle
Lie on back with legs up and bent 90 degrees, shins parallel to the floor. Cup head with hands then life shoulders up and forward. In steady motion move right elbow to left knee. Hold one second and reverse moving left elbow to right knee. Repeat.
Leg Lifts
Lie on back with legs straight. Place hands under buttocks and lift legs two to three inches off the ground. This is starting position. Then move legs up two to three feet and slowly lower back to starting position. Repeat.
Crunches
Lie on back, bend knees and place feet flat. Hands are to the side of the head. Lift head and shoulders forward. Hold one second then lower body to starting position. Repeat.
For more exercises to flatten and tone abs see:
