How to Get Lean, Defined Abs + Cardio Ab Workout

I don’t know anyone who doesn’t wish they had a flat stomach or more defined abdominal muscles. No matter how many crunches you do, you just can’t seem to get those sculpted abs you desire. What most people don’t know is you cannot crunch your way to a six pack.

 In order to get a flat stomach, you must first, and most importantly, EAT CLEAN! Throw out all of the sugary, salty, processed foods and replace them with healthy fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Eating clean will help reduce the overall fat on your body including your stomach fat. Once you start to melt away your stomach fat, your abdominal's will become more visible.

Then, you can work on strength training to sculpt your newly visible abs. Strength training should involve a combination of total body weight training and interval training. Steady-state cardio will not burn fat as efficiently as high intensity interval strength training. In addition, you need to focus on TOTAL body strength training, not just crunches and sit-ups, because this will strengthen your entire core.

Lastly, don’t forget about your BACK. Most people just focus on the front of their core and neglect all of the core muscles in their upper and lower back. It is important to strengthen both the front and back of your core to develop and tighten your entire core. Not only will strengthening your core help you get the six-pack you desire, but it will help you with your speed, balance, and agility as well.

   Try the cardio ab workout below. Focus on tightening your core to provide the stability you need for each exercise so you don’t injure your lower back.

Side Plank - Make sure you have a straight line from your elbow to shoulder and lift hips towards the ceiling

 In and Out Abs – Start in high plank position with wrists below shoulders, back straight, bracing your core, feet shoulder-width apart. Jump both feet in towards your hand then back out into the starting position. That’s one. When you jump back out make sure you brace your core and keep your back straight so you don’t injure your lower back.

 Plank Jacks – Start in high plank with wrists below shoulders, straight back, brace your core, legs shoulder-width apart. Jump both feet out like a jumping jack then back in. That’s one. Make sure you are bracing your core the whole time so your back doesn’t dip and make your body out of line.