Health & Fitness
5 Easy Ab Workouts You Can Do Standing
Ab workouts are some of the easiest at-home exercises because they generally require inexpensive equipment or no equipment at all, but some people have trouble with floor-based ab workouts due to lower back injuries. Below, I’ve put together six easy ab workouts that you can do while standing to take the pressure off your back and put the focus on your core.
Kettlebell twists
A kettlebell is an incredibly versatile tool, especially when it comes to ab workouts. If you don’t have one, you can use a dumbbell for this exercise or substitute with something relatively heavy from around the house like a gallon jug filled with water. CAP makes affordable kettlebells that are high-quality like this 15-lb kettlebell. Now, onto the exercise.
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and hold the kettlebell or dumbbell directly in front of you — keeping your arms straight. Twist to your right, then return to the center position with your arms in front of you. That’s one rep. Repeat the same movement to your left. You’ll want to perform three sets of eight to 10 repetitions on each side to maximize core stabilization.
Side reaches
This exercise is meant to target your obliques and is as simple as it gets. Stand straight with your feet wide apart. Reach to the ceiling as you bend slightly to your left or right. You should feel the movement in your sides if you’re performing it correctly. Less is more on this exercise. Start with three sets of five to 10 repetitions.
Marching twists
The goal with marching twists is to work your core and hip flexors. To perform the exercise, you’ll want to stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Bring your left knee up to meet your right elbow, twisting your torso as you do. Then, bring your right knee up to meet your left elbow. Perform three sets of six to eight repetitions.
Side crunch
Side crunches work the same way as floor crunches, but you can do them while standing. When it comes to good core workouts, this is an exercise you’ll want in your repertoire. Like the other exercises above, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Bend sideways at your waist and reach the opposite arm over your head in the direction you’re bending. Keep the rest of your body stable. Start with three sets of eight repetitions.
Crossover toe touches
When it comes to easy ab workouts, this is as easy and basic as it gets, but it’s highly effective. Stand with your feet just beyond shoulder width. Bend at the waist while bringing your left arm down to touch your right foot. Repeat on the other side. Perform three sets of eight to 10 repetitions.
String together some or all of these exercises for a complete ab stretches and workout. If you need some new workout gear or decide to pick up a kettlebell, be sure to shop with Rakuten to get Cash Back. If you’re not yet a member, it’s really easy to join and the rewards just keep coming.
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