Tummy Flattening Exercises

Take it from celebrity trainer Jackie Warner. She teaches her clients that the best way to get a nice tummy is not through crunches, it is through push-ups, pull-ups, and squats. She's right! Why you ask? Crunches work mainly the rectus abdominus and target the upper two of the six pack muscles, building the muscle leaving your stomach look bulky.

In order to get a flat stomach you want to target your deeper abdominal stabilizers; your Transverse Abdominus, Multifidus, Pelvic Floor, and Diaphragm. Taking a deep breath in through you midsection and then exhaling drawing your navel in toward your spine will begin to activate these muscles. Now breath this way while doing push-ups, pull-ups, lunges, and squats and you will be on your way to a strong core and a sexy stomach. If you want to target specific abdominal muscles like your obliques (love handels) try a side plank. Hold for 30 seconds on each side. Be sure to belly breath and draw your naval into your spine.

Try two of my favorite core exercises

Side Plank-Hold 30-60 seconds on each side and repeat 2-3 sets

Front plank hold 30-60 seconds for intermediate to advanced add alternating leg lifts