With the emergence of gym culture in the last couple of years, exercising, for many people, has become synonymous with using the equipment. Whenever a conversation about workouts springs up, it inevitably leads to us discussing the efficacy of dumbbells, sit up bars.
Now, while there is no denying that these equipment do assist your body in reaching your physique goals, another truth is that they are also relatively expensive, most of them are difficult to maintain, and the most important and trusted fact of all, weight can be lost, and abs can be built without them.
If you are someone who has been planning to practise home workouts without equipment, here is a list of tried and tested exercises that you can include in your abs workout at home and shed all the extra fat and build a chiselled midsection just as effectively:
1) Russian Twists
These core engaging exercises are something that your abs workout at home should definitely have. Not just fat loss, Russian twists are excellent for improving posture and balance as well. First, sit erect on the floor with your legs bent at the knees and feet flat on the floor. Now, slowly lift your feet off the ground, keep them together. Next, move your body in the backward direction until it makes a V shape with your thighs. Your spine should be straight, and your neck relaxed, with no slouching. Now twist your torso to the left, back to the centre and then right.
2) Mountain climbers
If you want to lose the excess fat in your arms, thighs, hips, back and stomach, mountain climbers are your best bet for doing just that. Regular practice with mountain climbers will help your body burn calories faster and boost your metabolism. Start in the position of a high-plank. Now, bring your right leg forwards, make sure the thigh touches your chest and switch legs. Continue doing this for at least 50 reps twice each day, and you will start seeing the results. You can also try variations like mountain climbers’ twists.
3) Jumping Jacks
Every beginner’s favourite exercise, jumping jacks, need absolutely no equipment and yet deliver top-notch results. First, stand straight with your feet together. Then, bend your knees, jump lightly and spread your feet shoulder-width apart as you land. Simultaneously, open your hand’s wide out and over your head. Now, jump back to the starting position and keep alternating between both positions. Again, 2-3 sets of 20-30 reps are recommended for beginners.
4) Planks
Planks are the first exercise that a coach would ask you to include in your abs workout at home. They engage all parts of your abdomen, tone the muscles and also help build strength. Place your forearms on the floor, now extend your legs backwards until your body is straight, rest on your toes. Your weight should majorly be on your forearms and not on your toes. Next, inhale and brace your core; hold the position for 30 seconds or as long as possible. Release and repeat. You may also try variations like the side planks to strengthen your obliques.