Dorm Room Workout Series: Awesome Abs

By Garnet Henderson

Just because bikini season is over doesn’t mean you can’t have fantastic abs. And luckily for us college ladies, there are lots of ab exercises that can be done in a small space. For these moves, it will be a good idea to use a yoga mat if you have one, or place a towel or blanket on the floor to give your back a little extra padding.

1. Seated Leg Raises

This exercise is a fantastic one for building strength and stability in your entire core. Start seated, with your heels planted onto the floor. Place your arms out to the side, and curve down about halfway to the floor. Think of pulling your belly button in toward your spine to engage your abs and support your back. Then lift your right leg, and gently place it down again. Switch and lift the left leg. Repeat this sequence 10 times, rest, and repeat again.

2. Pelvis Tucks

This move will target your lower abs specifically. Begin by lying on your back, with your legs straight up toward the ceiling. Again, imagine pulling your belly button toward your spine and poke your feet up toward the ceiling, lifting your butt just a few inches off the ground. You’re not looking for height here – this exercise is about the deep contraction in your lower abs, so focus on using those muscles as opposed to swinging your legs around. Repeat until you’ve lifted your butt off the floor 30 times.

3. Cross-Body Knee Bends

This exercise is great for the obliques, as well as general back and arm strength. Begin in a plank position, engaging your abs to support your back. Bend your right knee and bring in across your body, toward your left arm. Then switch, bringing your left knee toward your right arm. Repeat this sequence, 10 times, rest, and repeat again.