Despite what it looks like, running is a full body sport. As runners we pump our arms to give us power, use our core and back to maintain good form, our hips to attend to our alignment, glutes to power us up hills, and quads to keep our legs moving. Our entire body is active while we are out on a run, even if we don’t know it. It took me a few years, but I finally discovered the secret to running injury free: keep your entire body strong.

Ever since I made a point to spend certain days each week focusing on strengthening different areas, my running pains and fatigue have drastically decreased. While cardio workouts are always fun, one of my favorite areas to strength is my core. There is something about completing an abs workout that is so satisfying. Exercising to achieve a flat belly seems to have become quite popular, and I’d be lying if I said I didn’t see why.

Having a flat stomach provides a great source of confidence, not to mention helping with our posture all day long. After years of experimenting with situps and crunches, only to find that they weren’t working, I finally discovered a different style of exercises that have led me to much greater success. The ab exercises below combine isomentric and dynamic moves, sculpting your abs and flattening your belly. The first time I tried a workout like this my abs were sore for days – that’s when I knew it was good.

Below I have combined all of my favorite core exercises into one abs workout. All of these moves are effective in toning the core, giving you a flat stomach. These exercises burn in the best way, and hit all the problem areas: the lower abs, upper abs, and obliques (to get rid of those dreaded muffin tops).

This workout is sure to be a favorite, and will keep your core stronger than ever.

30 Minute At Home Abs Workout

Complete the three moves in each circuit, and repeat as many times as possible until 5 minutes are up.

Circuit 1: 5 minutes

Legs Down Crisscross x 15

Mountain Climbers x 50

Raised Leg Sit Ups x 30

Circuit 2: 5 minutes

Jack Knifes x 20

Side Plank with Taps x 10 each side

Straight Leg Raises x 20

Circuit 3: 5 minutes

Straight Leg Raises & Hip Lift x 20

Russian Twists x 50

Bent Leg Hip Lifts x 20

Repeat Circuits 1 – 3

There is nothing more satisfying than spending time strengthening your muscles and finally seeing results. This workout gave me exactly that. In just 30 minutes a week, I was finally able to strengthen my abs and lose belly fat – all at home in my living room. With no equipment needed, this workout is my favorite abs workout to complete when I’m traveling or feeling unmotivated.

Keep it up and you will be amazed!