Weighing In: 5-Minute Ab Workout

Photo by Danielle Gallo

There are few things worse than wanting to have a good workout but not having the time. What’s a girl to do?!

Don’t worry – Valley is here to help! All you need is a yoga mat or other soft surface, and 5 minutes of interrupted time. Here’s a 5 minute ab workout that’s sure to make you feel the burn. Start the countdown now!

1st minute

Elbow plank

For the first minute, plank on your elbows. Make sure to keep your back flat and don’t let your booty drop!

2nd minute

Spider Planks

From the elbow plank position, alternatively lift your right knee up to your right shoulder, then put your right leg back to its original  position and lift your left knee up to your left shoulder, then return to the original position. For this exercise, as you lift your leg up to your shoulder, try to keep your leg as parallel to the ground as possible.

3rd minute

Single Leg Jack Knives

From the plank position, flip over to your backside and lie flat on the floor. Extend your arms straight back behind your head. Your legs should also be extended. Exhale as you lift your right leg up and both arms up. It should look like your trying to touch your toes and your upper torso should be off the floor. Return your leg and arms to starting position, then repeat on the left side. Do this for a minute.

4th minute

Alternative Toe Touches

Now, lift both legs up. Your body should be in an “L” shape. With your right hand, touch your left foot, trying not to bend your left leg. Then switch and touch your right foot with your left hand. Repeat for a minute.

5th minute

Russian Twists

Sit up from your current position, then bend your knees. Keeping your back straight, lift your legs, still in a bent position off the floor. Slowly turn your body to the right, touch the ground, the slowly turn to the left and do the same. To make this harder, try holding weight in your hands. (Use a gallon of milk or iced tea if you have it on hand!) For the last 15 seconds, hold your legs in a bent position without turning your body.

 

Congrats! You’ve completed the 5 minute ab workout! Make sure you do this straight through to feel the burn completely!