3 Exercises for Flat Abs!

So after 3 pregnancies and 2 C-Sections, my tummy was no longer flat.  A couple of years ago I decided that I wanted to get fit and flatten my tummy.  So, along with my cleansing program, I worked out in the gym.  Here are three effective abdominal exercises that I did to help acheive a flatter midsection:

1. Bicycle Maneuver
   Studies actually prove this to be one of the most effective.
   
   Starting Position: 
   Lie on a mat with your lower back in a comfortable position.
   Put your hands on either side of your head by your ears.
   Bring your knees up to about a 45-degree angle.
   
   Movement: 
   Slowly go through a bicycle pedaling motion alternating your left elbow to your right knee, then your right elbow to your left knee.
   
   Key Points: 
   This can be a more advanced exercise. Do not perform this activity if it puts any strain on your lower back.
   Do not pull on your head and neck during this exercise.
   The lower to the ground your legs bicycle, the harder your abs have to work.
   
   
2. Reverse Trunk Twist
   
   Starting Position:
   Lie on the floor with your back relaxed and your arms out to the sides forming a "T" with your body.
   Extend your legs straight up in the air so your hips form a 90-degree angle with a slight bend in your knees.
   
   Movement: 
   Contracting the abdominal and oblique muscles, lower your legs toward one side, keeping your feet together and your back on the floor. Stop at the limits of the strength of your abdominal and oblique muscles.
   This may start out as a very small range of motion and gradually increase as you get stronger.
   Slowly return to the starting position.
   After completing the set on the one side, repeat on the other side.
   
   Key Points:
   Exhale while lowering your legs.
   Inhale while returning to the starting position.
   
   
3. Ab Crunch
   
   Starting Position:
   Lie on a mat on your back.
   Make sure that your lower back is relaxed against the mat during this exercise.
   Bend your knees until your legs are at a 45-degree angle.
   Keep both feet on the floor.
   Place both hands behind your head.
   
   Movement:
   Contracting the upper abs, raise your head and upper torso off the floor until your shoulders are slightly lifted.
   Slowly return to the starting position, stopping just short of your head touching the floor.
   
   Key Points:
   Exhale as you contract the abs.
   Inhale while returning to the starting position.
   Keep your eyes focused on the ceiling to avoid pulling with your neck. Your hands should not be used to lift the head or assist in the movement.

While going through my 30 day cleansing program, I created a weekly video journal to track my progress.  If you are interested in seeing how I did, you can click over to my You Tube Channel!  Click Here:
I hope this helps. 
Have an Amazing Day!