The Best Abs Exercises

Top Exercises

Quarter Sit-Up

Beginner / Bodyweight-only / Abs / core

A sit-up variation focusing on the high-tension initial phase of the movement. It minimizes hip flexor involvement while isolating the upper abs.

Hollow Hold

Beginner / Bodyweight-only / Abs / core

A foundational isometric core exercise. It teaches the body to maintain tension and a neutral spine, essential for gymnastics and heavy lifting.

Half Sit-Up

Beginner / Bodyweight-only / Abs / core

A sit-up variation focusing on the mid-range of the movement to keep the abdominals under constant, high tension.

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.

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.

Cable Side Bend

Beginner / Cable Crossover Machine / Abs / isolation

Targets the obliques. The cable provides constant lateral resistance, strengthening the abdominal wall and improving spinal stability.

Barbell Side Bent

Intermediate / Barbell / Abs / isolation

A core exercise targeting the obliques. It improves lateral spinal stability and strengthens the abdominal wall against lateral forces.

Band Upper Crunch

Beginner / Handle Bands / Abs / core

Targets the upper rectus abdominis. The band adds resistance to the standard crunch, increasing the load on the upper abdominals for better development.

Band Decline Sit-Up

Intermediate / Handle Bands / Abs / core

Increases the challenge to the abdominals by using a band to add resistance. It improves core strength and power through an increased load.

Side Bridge with Bent Leg

Intermediate / Bodyweight-only / Abs / isolation

A modified side plank for beginners or high-repetition endurance work. It targets the obliques while reducing the load on the hips.

Seated In Out Leg Raise on Floor

Beginner / Bodyweight-only / Abs / core

Targets the lower abdominals and hip flexors. It improves core endurance and control through a continuous "in and out" pumping motion.

Reverse Crunch

Beginner / Bodyweight-only / Abs / core

A fundamental lower-abdominal movement. By curling the pelvis toward the ribs, it targets the lower portion of the rectus abdominis effectively.

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Cable Crossover Machine

Cable Machine

Cable Machine with Rope Attachment

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Seated Cable Row Machine

Sled Machine

Smith Machine

Stability (Swiss) Ball