Best Abdominal Exercise

Current Weight: 216 lbs.
Body Fat: 29.0%
Exercise Tip 7: Bicycle maneuver

A study at the Biomechanics Lab at San Diego State University looked at 13 common abdominal exercises in order to determine what really works. The Bicycle maneuver was the best exercise to strengthening the rectus abdominus (stomach muscles). While the captain's chair is better for working the obliques, it requires the equipment and the Bicycle maneuver is a close second best.

To perform the Bicycle maneuver, lie flat on your back, keeping your lower back pressed to the ground. Place your hands beside your head. Bring your knees up to about a 45-degree angle and slowly go through a bicycle pedal motion. Touch your left elbow to your right knee, then your right elbow to your left knee. Breath evenly throughout the exercise.