Lab-Tested Belly Flatteners

For a firm, flat belly, think outside the crunch: Experts say the best moves are those that engage the deepest stomach muscles to pull in your waistline like a corset. Researcher Michele Olson, PhD, an exercise physiologist at Auburn University, found that these two moves were tops in targeting the key muscles. Do them 3 times a week.



The Hundred: Lie on back with arms at sides, palms down, knees bent to 90 degrees. Raise head, lifting upper back and arms a few inches, and engage abs. Inhale as you pulse arms up and down an inch to a count of 5; exhale for 5 pulses. Do 10 times, for a total of 100 pulses.



Double Leg Stretch: Still on back, lift shoulder blades, engage abs, exhale, and hug knees toward chest, hands on shins. Inhale and extend legs forward while bringing arms back, forming a big V. Return knees to chest; repeat 8 to 10 times.


Last Updated: 10/15/2008 Issue Date: December 2008