4 Unique Exercises for Toning Abs

Sometimes the same old crunches and situps get boring, and maintaining interest in your exercise program is key to long term success.  The best solution is to find an exercise program developed specifically for balance and completeness, but try mixing some of these unique moves for toning abs into your workout.

Exercise 1 - Wood Chops.  This exercise works by toning abs and working them in a twisting motion, which is useful for real-life applications where a twisting is much more common than just a linear contraction.  Perform this move at a cable machine at your gym or with a resistance band anchored near the floor.  Stand with your right side facing the machine.  Take the handle in both hands, and take your arms up and across your body diagonally until your arms are extended to the left side of your body and at a slight upward angle.  Slowly return to your starting position.  Repeat for the desired number of reps and for the opposite side of the body.  This exercise can also be done with any heavy weight in your hands, like a medicine ball or a small weight-plate.

Exercise 2 - Balancing Ab Twist.  Start in a plank position (the upper position of a pushup).  Keep your right hand rooted to the floor, and lift your right arm toward the ceiling while twisting your entire body and stacking your feet on top of each other (left over right).  End with your left arm pointing at the ceiling, your body facing parallel to the floor, and your right arm straight and supporting your weight.  From this position, wrap your left arm around your body while twisting your upper body and keeping your hips and legs in the same position.  Then, return to the top position with your left arm pointing toward the ceiling.  Repeat for the desired number of reps, and then switch sides.

Exercise 3 - Swiss Ball Rollouts.  You will need a swiss ball for this exercise.  Kneel on the floor with the swiss ball in front of you.  Lean forward with a flat back and place your forearms on the swiss ball.  While contracting your abs, use your arms to roll the ball away from your while leaning forward.  Roll the ball as far away from you as you are able while maintaining good form, the contract your abs and pull the ball back to the starting position.

These unique exercises will keep your workouts interesting and varied while you focus on developing your abdominal muscles and losing fat.  Remember though, that a complete exercise and diet plan is the best path to toning abs.  You will need to strengthen your core as well as reduce your body fat in order to see the best results.