How to Get a Six Pack without Crunches

7 Core Moves That Are More Fun Than Situps

Shake up your abs routine with these moves, inspired from popular gym classes, belly dancing, even burlesque
By Erin Hicks fitbie
 

Knee Thrust

7 Core Moves That Are More Fun Than Situps // knee thrust © Beth Bischoff

Image: Beth Bischoff

Where we've seen it before: Martial arts

How to do it: Start in a lunge position with your right leg forward and your hands forward at shoulder height (similar to the warrior pose in yoga). Shifting the weight of your body to the right leg, thrust your left knee towards the chest, as if you're trying to jam your left knee into someone's chin. At the same time, bend your elbows back, as if you're grabbing their face with your hands. As your knee goes forward, your core should tighten as your hips move forward and your torso leans back.

How many reps: Practice 10 on the right side, 10 on the left.

Why it works: "This move is a core balance challenge that forces your abdominals to stabilize you, since your leg is off the ground. Going from a balanced to unbalanced position challenges your whole core," says Mallett.

Make it harder: Go faster—now you have to work even harder to stabilize and not fall over.

Getting rid of your gut doesn't have to be painful. Check out the 6 happiest ways to beat belly fat!

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