Crunches for ABS

Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. You can also do crunches with your legs straight up in the air.

• Place your hands lightly behind your head, being careful not to pull on your neck. Don't lock your fingers behind your head.

• Tighten your abdominal muscles and lift your shoulders off the floor about 2-3 inches. Focus on using your abs to lift your torso, not pulling with your hands/arms.

• Hold the contraction for a second at the top of the crunch. Slowly lower back down to the starting position.

• Breathe normally throughout the exercise. Don't hold your breath.

• Start with 1-2 sets of 10-15 reps, working your way up to 3 sets as you get stronger. Give your abs a day of rest between sessions.

• Go slowly and focus on good form. Doing crunches quickly and without control can strain your back.

• Draw in your navel toward your spine to better target your abs. Keep your lower back pressed into the floor.

• You can make crunches harder by holding a weight across your chest or doing crunches on an exercise ball.