21 Incredibly Effective Abs Exercises You Can Do Instead Of Crunches

portishead1, Getty Images/Graphic by Jocelyn Runice

Skip the crunches and two-minute plank holds and try these 21 effective abs exercises instead. These moves will strengthen your entire core as well as add a little variety to your regular abs routine. 

1. Plank Taps

Whitney Thielman

• Start in high plank with your feet hip-distance apart.
• Then tap each hand to the opposite shoulder while engaging your core and glutes to keep the hips as still as possible.

2. Down Dog Taps

Whitney Thielman

• Start in down dog.
• Lift your right hand off the floor and reach toward your left ankle (gently tapping the front of your foot or ankle if possible).
• Return right hand to the floor and repeat with the opposite arm. Stay in Down Dog throughout the entire exercise.

3. Plank Ups

Whitney Thielman

• Start in high plank. Bend one arm to bring the elbow and forearm to the floor.
• Bring the other arm down so you are in a forearm plank.
• Push back up to the start position, placing each hand where your elbows were.
• Repeat this movement, alternating which side you lower first with each rep.

4. Warrior Balance

Whitney Thielman

• Stand on your left foot and lift your right knee to hip height in front of your body.
• Reach your torso forward as you extend your right leg behind you. Keep your standing leg slightly bent as your torso becomes parallel with the floor. Extend your arms overhead to help with balance.
• Pause for a second, then reverse the movement. Don’t forget to do both sides!

5. Plank With T Rotation

Whitney Thielman

• Start in high plank with your feet hip-distance apart.
• Now rotate your entire body to the right into a side plank with your shoulder above your wrists.
• Extend your right arm to the ceiling and continue to drive your hips up.
• Return to center position, then repeat on the opposite side. 

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