10 Minutes to Firm Abs

Like most things in life, the more you put into your pursuit of firm abs, the more you will get out of it.  The best results can be found with a full-featured exercise and diet program or a combination of quality programs.  However, if you are looking for a quick start to firm abs and a strong core, then this series of exercises will be a good start.  These exercises focus on the core of your body and will strengthen your abdominal, oblique, and lower back muscles.  Use this short core routine on any day that you cannot complete a full workout or on days when you are away from home and unable to get to a gym.

Exercise 1 - Alternating Superman.  This exercise will strengthen your lower back, which is important for maximum strength in your abdominals.  First, lie on your stomach on the floor with your arms straight out in front of you.  Then raise your left arm and right leg 4-5 inches off of the ground and hold for 5 seconds.  Repeat the move with your right arm and left leg.  This is one repetition.  Perform 12 repetitions.  

Exercise 2 - Alternating Ab Toe Touch.  This exercise will put the focus on your abs and isolate each side of your body.  First, lie on your back with your legs perpendicular to the ground.  Reach your right hand toward your left toe by contracting your abdominals.  Then, reach your left hand toward your right toe.  Perform 25 repetitions on each side.

Exercise 3 - Ab Walkout.  This is  a substitute for ab rollouts if you don't have an ab wheel.  Begin in the plank position (the upper part of a pushup with your arms straight, you can place your knees on the ground to make the exercise easier).  Slowly walk your hands straight ahead away from your body while keeping your back straight until you feel that you cannot go any further.  Then, walk your hands back to their starting position.  This is one rep.  Perform 10 of these for firm abs.

Exercise 4 - V-Up.  Start by laying with your back on the floor and your arms pointing toward the ceiling.  Contract your abs to reach your hands toward the ceiling while at the same time raising the legs toward the ceiling.  Try to touch your hands to your feet while bending the legs as little as possible.  Lower with control to the start position.  Repeat this 10 times.