Once you have gotten rid of that unsightly fat from your stomach through dieting, it is time to begin an exercise

program. Although the most effective exercises involve all areas of the body, you will still need to incorporate some basic ab exercises into the routine. Although there are a wide number of ab exercises you can do, the American Council on Exercise has put together a list of those that have been proven to work well and to maximize your

efforts. This article will provide you with instructions and information on four exercises you may be interested in

trying.

The Bike

This simple exercise is extremely effective for targeting your obliques and rectus abdominis. Lie flat with your

lower back pressed firmly against the floor and with your hands behind your head. Position your knees at a 45

degree angle and begin to pedal slowly, basically as if you riding a bicycle, hence the name. As you pedal, touch your left elbow to your right knee and then reverse the process.

Try your best to keep your breathing even.

The Vertical Leg Crunch

This exercise is great for working your obliques and rectus abdominis. Position yourself flat on the floor with your legs extended straight up to the ceiling and make sure

your ankles are crossed. You can place your hands either on the floor or on your head for support. Keep your legs still as you concentrate on contracting your abs and lift

your shoulder blades off the floor.

Ab Exercise 3: Reverse leg Crunch

This is a great little exercise that is also very effective when it comes to working the rectus abdominis. Once again start by by lying flat on the floor with your legs

extended upward at a 90 degree angle. Raise your hips off the floor towards the ceiling as slowly as you possibly can.

Hold for a few seconds and then slowly return to the starting position. Make sure you hold your form for

maximum effectiveness.

The Ball Crunch

Once again a fantastic exercise for targeting the rectus abdominis. To perform a ball crunch, lie on the ball,

positioning it in the middle of your back. After you have got yourself on the ball and you have got it under control,

cross your arms or place your hands behind your head. Really squeeze your abdominal muscles and slowly lift

your torso off the ball. Exhale. Hold the position for a few seconds, then slowly lower yourself back onto the ball. Try

to stay in control of the movement at all times. Then, inhale.

These are not the only exercises to be found on the list. In fact there are too numerous to mention here in this

article. For example in addition to the bicycle, vertical leg crunch, reverse leg crunch and ball crunch, you can find

the plank, captain's chair leg raise, and torso track. Keep in mind that these are exercises are not meant to reduce fat in your abdominal area. Instead, they will help shape your

stomach, along with a well devised diet, and help you towards the lean ripped abs you always wanted.

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