Tweak your ab work for better results

Over a long period of time, if you keep doing the same exercises the same way, your body will get used to the moves and will go on “autopilot.” You’ll stop seeing results even though you spend your time exercising. Here is an effective way to change your abdominal routine. By simply extending one arm straight while doing curls, you’ll increase the intensity of each rep and easily kick up your ab training.

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1 Lie faceup on a mat or padded surface. Place your feet on a couch, chair or ottoman. Make sure this surface does not raise your feet higher than knee level. Extend your right arm overhead with the biceps near your right ear. Bend your left arm behind your head, holding your right arm.

2 On an exhale, lift your chest, head and both shoulders off the floor. Pause at the top of the curl and concentrate on pressing your navel toward your spine. Lower to the starting position and repeat for 15 reps. Switch arms and do another set with your left arm extended.

-- Karen Voight