The Non-Boring (Crunch-Free!) Way to Get Abs

It’s a sad fact: Our quest for a six-pack is countered by our hatred of crunches. There’s something about laying down to start the exercise that sends flashbacks of high school gym class rushing back to us. Fortunately, we tapped SWERVE Fitness Instructor Jason Tran to get his tips for landing that six pack—sans gym class blast from the past. That’s right, we’ve got three moves that show you how to get abs without crunches.

Side planks

Lie in a straight line on your side while resting on your forearm. Stack your shoulder over your elbow as your raise your hips from the floor while maintaining a straight line. Try to keep your hips square and your neck neutral throughout. Hold the pose for 30 seconds then alternate sides. Complete two rounds on each side.

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Bicycles

Lay on the floor and place your fingertips behind your head remembering to keep your elbows wide. Bend your left leg so that your thigh is perpendicular to the ground and lift your right leg off the ground—keeping it straight—and bring your right elbow as close to your left knee as possible. Alternate your left elbow to your right knee as you straighten your left leg. Compete this motion for 30 seconds. Complete two rounds.

Boat pose

Sit with your feet on the floor and your legs bent. Place your hands underneath your knees and lift your chest. Drive your shoulders back toward the ground as you extend your lower legs out (making them straight) while balancing on your sitting bones. (Your body should resemble the picture above!) Release your hands from your legs and stretch them forward for more of a challenge. Hold this pose for 30 seconds. Then repeat another round.

More from Daily Makeover: The Quick Workout You Can Do During TV Commercials