The Best Abs Exercises

Top Exercises

Lying Leg Raise and Hold

Intermediate / Bodyweight-only / Abs / core

Builds core endurance and targets the lower abdominals. The hold increases time under tension, forcing the core to stabilize the weight of the legs.

Lying Scissor Crunch

Beginner / Bodyweight-only / Abs / core

A dynamic movement targeting the lower abs and obliques. The scissoring of the legs keeps the core under constant, varied tension.

Lying Elbow To Knee

Beginner / Bodyweight-only / Abs / core

A floor-based rotational core move. It provides high-tension work for the rectus abdominis and obliques while staying safe for the lower back.

Long Arm Crunch

Beginner / Bodyweight-only / Abs / core

Increases the lever length of the upper body, making the standard crunch significantly more difficult for the upper abdominals.

Leg Extension Crunch

Beginner / Stability (Swiss) Ball / Abs / core

A complex abdominal movement that combines a traditional crunch with leg extension. It emphasizes both the upper and lower rectus abdominis for total core development.

Janda Sit-Up

Beginner / Bodyweight-only / Abs / core

An advanced sit-up that isolates the abs by neurologically inhibiting the hip flexors through hamstring activation.

Flexion Leg Sit-Up

Beginner / Bodyweight-only / Abs / core

A sit-up variation where legs are held in a fixed flexed position. This isolates the upper abdominals and minimizes hip flexor involvement.

Floor Crunch Feet on Bench

Beginner / Bodyweight-only / Abs / core

An isolation exercise for the upper abs. Elevating the feet on a bench removes the ability to use the legs for momentum.

Dumbbell Straight Leg Russian Twist

Intermediate / Dumbbells / Abs / core

An advanced rotational exercise that challenges the obliques and hip flexors. Keeping the legs straight increases the demand on the lower core.

Dumbbell Straight Arm Crunch

Intermediate / Dumbbells / Abs / core

A core isolation exercise that increases the lever length to challenge the upper abdominals. It keeps the core under constant tension.

Dumbbell Side Bridge with Bent Leg

Intermediate / Dumbbells / Abs / isolation

A modified side plank that incorporates a lateral leg raise or hold with a dumbbell to increase glute and oblique activation.

Dumbbell Russian Twist

Intermediate / Dumbbells / Abs / core

A rotational core exercise targeting the obliques. It improves spinal mobility and lateral abdominal strength under constant cable or weight tension.

Explore by Muscle Groups

Explore by Equipment

Accessories

Cable Crossover Machine

Cable Machine

Cable Machine with Rope Attachment

Free Weights

No Equipment

Resistance Bands

Seated Cable Row Machine

Sled Machine

Smith Machine

Stability (Swiss) Ball