The best exercises for abs at home, according to an expert personal trainer

These are the best exercises for abs to do at home or in the gym

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When you’re looking for the best exercises for abs to do at home, it’s easy to resort to the familiar rhythms of crunches and sit-ups . We’ve clenched our jaws, counted our reps, and put our trust in the process, but unfortunately, you won’t be seeing too many results from these staple Phys Ed exercises.

In fact, these popular movements might be causing more harm than good, particularly for your back. If you’re in the gym (and if you love the gym, you should check out ourbest gym shoesbuying guide) or at home, there are better, safer exercises to perform.

Sit-ups tend to favor your hip flexors rather than engaging the targeted abdominal muscles, while crunches squash your spine into the floor, contributing to back pain according to theJournal of Orthopaedic Sports Physical Therapy. Not all exercises are created equal when it comes to sculpting your abs at home.

NASM-qualified fitness trainer, Wendy Batts says targeting your core isn’t just about your rectus abdominis. The central part of the body accounts for not just your abdominal muscles, but also the muscles around the hips and lower back.

Wendy Batts, MS, is a regional master instructor for the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) and an assistant professor in exercise science programs at Pennsylvania Western University. She is also a consultant for companies in the fitness, performance, and wellness space.

Batts says: “In order, to strengthen and condition the abs for looks and to optimize both form and function, you must look beyond crunches and their variations by incorporating a variety of exercises and movements that challenge movement and stability of the core from multiple positions, directions, and angles.”

Batts has outlined four game-changing exercises for your abs and core muscles, each designed to reshape your home-based ab workout routine.

Exercise #1: The Dead Bug

Want to intensify the ab burn? Batts says, “As a progression small resistance bands can be added around the feet and wrists or you can advance to moving both arms and legs simultaneously.”

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Exercise #2: Standard plank

Exercise #3: Side plank

Some find the side plank harder to hold than your standard plank. Batts suggests lifting from the outside of the bottom knee instead of the feet in order to make things a little easier.

Exercise #4: Bird Dog

Exercise #5: Windshield wipers

Final thoughts

This list of no-equipment exercises will target your abdominal muscles, foster overall core strength, in a safe way. Just remember, it’s not just about the aesthetics; a resilient core enhances your posture, balance, and everyday movements. With every rep, you’re not just building muscles—you’re building a foundation for a healthier and stronger version of yourself. Add them to your exercise routine, whether you’re following your own schedule or a program from an app likeFitbit PremiumorFitbod.

Jessica Downey is an experienced health and fitness writer with a particular interest in running. A former staff writer on Fit & Well and contributor to Runner’s World, Jess is a PPA accredited magazine journalist born and raised in Scotland. When back home, she can be found running by the sea, swimming in it, or up a mountain somewhere.

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