4 Ab Moves to Try This Spring for a Stronger Core

With summer right around the corner, many of us are looking to refresh our workout routines and shed the layers of winter. It's the perfect time to focus on core strength and embrace exercises that engage and challenge your abdominal muscles. Even if you have a limited time, here's four different ab moves to try, designed to help you build a stronger core and achieve the toned look you're aiming for.

1. Bicycle Crunches

Bicycle crunches are a classic ab exercise that targets the entire core, especially the obliques. This move simulates a cycling motion, engaging multiple muscle groups at once.

How to Do It:

• Lie flat on your back with your hands behind your head and your legs lifted, bent at the knees.
• Bring your left elbow toward your right knee while extending your left leg straight out.
• Switch sides by bringing your right elbow toward your left knee while extending your right leg.
• Continue alternating sides in a controlled, fluid motion, keeping your core engaged and your lower back pressed to the floor.
• Aim for 3 sets of 12–15 repetitions on each side.

2. Plank with Leg Lift

Planks are a staple for core strength, and adding a leg lift increases the challenge. This move engages your entire core, along with your glutes and lower back.

How to Do It:

• Start in a forearm plank position, with your elbows directly beneath your shoulders and your body forming a straight line from head to heels.
• Lift one leg off the ground, keeping it straight, and hold for a few seconds.
• Lower the leg and switch to the other side.
• Continue alternating leg lifts, focusing on keeping your hips level and your core tight.
• Perform 3 sets of 8–10 repetitions on each side.

3. Russian Twists

Russian twists are an effective way to target the obliques and improve rotational strength. This move is ideal for anyone looking to enhance core stability and build a solid foundation.

How to Do It:

• Sit on the floor with your knees bent and your feet flat. Lean back slightly to engage your core, and hold your hands together in front of you.
• Rotate your torso to the right, bringing your hands to the right side.
• Return to the center and rotate to the left, bringing your hands to the left side.
• Keep your core tight and your movements controlled.
• Aim for 3 sets of 15–20 repetitions on each side.

4. Mountain Climbers

Mountain climbers are a dynamic ab exercise that also provides a cardio boost. This move targets the entire core and helps improve endurance and agility.

How to Do It:

• Start in a high plank position, with your hands directly beneath your shoulders and your body forming a straight line from head to heels.
• Bring one knee toward your chest, then quickly switch legs, as if you're climbing a mountain.
• Continue alternating legs at a rapid pace, keeping your core engaged and your back flat.
• Perform 3 sets of 30-second bursts, aiming for a consistent pace.