Resistance, cardio add up to flat abs

To achieve awe-inspiring abs, do some weighted abdominal exercises such as the medicine ball twist. Sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you and your knees slightly bent. Point your toes upward and keep your heels firmly on the ground. Sit up straight grasping a six-pound medicine ball in front of you. Then, slowly lean back until you feel your abs engage. First, twist to the right side and tap the ball against the floor next to your hip and then execute the same movement on your left side. Make sure you are twisting with your torso and not swinging your arms from side to side. Look toward the side you are twisting to effectively target your abdominals and obliques. Try 12 to 15 reps on each side.

Even when your abdominals are strengthened, if your body fat percentage hovers too high, your midsection will remain mediocre. This is why cardio exercise as well as a healthy diet are vital.

— Wire services