Keep in mind that getting great abs takes more than just exercise, you need proper nutrition and a well-balanced exercise routine to go with the crunches. You also need to understand the difference between Body Composition and Body Fat.
1. Medicine Balls
Medicine ball workouts are a favorite of mine for getting the most out of any abdominal strengthening routine. For tips on exercises, check out the related Guide Picks for Best Ab Exercises.
2. Push Up Bars
The push up may just be the best total body exercise that builds core strength. Done properly, it is a compound exercise that uses muscles in the chest, shoulders, triceps, back, abs and even the legs.
Use push up bars and handles to create a more intense push up workout without stressing your wrists.
3. Bosu Balance Trainer
Using the Bosu Balance Trainer provides a full body workout for strength, agility and especially balance. You can perform several great core strengthening routines that require coordination and proprioception training. A nice, simple addition to any ab workout routine.
4. Balance Ball Workouts
If you have a standard balance ball at home you have a mini-gym. The number of exercises (especially ab work) that you can do with a balance ball is practically unlimited. Get a starter video to get the basics and go from there.
5. Pull Up Bar | Chin Up Bar
The pull up exercise (also called a chin up) is one of the most overlooked exercises for building upper body, back and core strength. It requires a very simple piece of exercise equipment -- a chin up bar. Chin up bars can be elaborate, free-standing pieces of exercise equipment, or simple, doorway chin up bars you purchase online or at a local sporting goods store.
6. Ab Wheel
Ab Wheels are extremely effective IF you use them properly. This simple piece of ab exercise equipment is not for beginners and overuse the first day can result in muscle soreness if you aren't careful. In addition to some basic ab exercise, the ab wheel can offer a complete ab workout.
7. The Firm: 5-Day Abs
Still one of the better ab workout videos on the market, The Firm has it all -- lots of variety, clear instruction, effective exercises and a straight-forward approach to ab training.
8. Rowing Machine Workouts
A rowing machine is a great way to get endurance exercise while focusing on core strength. This whole body exercise is a sure way to build ab strength.
9. Exercise Floor Mat
The standard crunch is still one of the best, most effective and efficient ways to strengthen and tone your abs. Getting a high quality exercise mat will make doing crunches more appealing during those commercials. Why lay on the hard wood or shag carpet?
10. Stronger Back and Abs
This book as a great reference for any athlete or exerciser who want to develop a strong midsection and get the most out of ab workouts. The book shows a whopping 165 exercises and provides lots training tips. Tons of illustrations and clear explanations of how to perform each movement.
