Oblique exercises to give you the abs you've always wanted
HOUSTON (KTRK) -- As a new mom, I'm learning how hard it is to get my toned tummy back, and I know it's a battle a lot of others struggle with every day. Of course, we know that abs are made in the kitchen, meaning that our diet is most important, but there are some exercises we can do to help them get to where we want to be.
Here are a few of my favorite exercises:
BALLERINA TWIST: Lie on your back with your legs and feet glued together. Put your arms over you, with fingers touching, like a ballerina. Lift up, bring arms in front of you, and then twist to your right. Twist back to the front, and lie down. Now repeat to the left side and continue.
KNEELING SIDE CRUNCH: Lower your knees to the ground. Then, lean to your right, so that your right hand is on the ground next to you. Lengthen your left leg, so your toe is on the ground. Lift your left leg up and down, keeping your toe pointed. Repeat several times and then move to the other side.
SQUAT TWIST TWIST: This works your legs and your abs! Bring your arms out in front of you, hands touching. Squat, and then twist to the right and twist to the left. Then, stand back up. Repeat.
Here are a few bonus exercises that I love!
SIDE PLANK LIFT: You can never go wrong with any type of plank! Lie on your side, elbow closest to the ground remains on the ground with your forearm and hand lying on ground in front of you. Extend your legs one on top of the other. Then, lift your other hand to the sky. Now, lift the body up and down. Repeat on other side.
OPPOSITE HAND/TOE TOUCHES: Lie with the back on the ground, legs separated hip-width apart. Put your right hand out over your head, and your left hand on your hip. Now, reach your right hand up to touch your left toe, lifting y our body and simultaneously lifting your left leg. Lower and repeat. Repeat on other side.
I always say do these exercises until they start to hurt (the good hurt!) and then do ten more. You really want your abs to burn!
