4 Minutes to Rock-Hard Abs

Sounds simple — four minutes of sit-ups. But sometimes the simplest things are the most grueling. Do this Tabata after your strength or cardio workout, performing as many reps as you can for your 20-second interval. Keep count in your head, and in each subsequent round, try to match or beat that number or reps. Your “score” is the lowest (yes, lowest) number you get when all is said and done. Cruel? Maybe. But it will keep you honest and make you work harder next time.

Butterfly Sit-Up

Setup: Lie faceup with an AbMat or folded towel supporting your lower back and place the soles of your shoes together, knees flared. Touch your hands together and extend your arms straight overhead, fingers lightly brushing the floor.

Move: Exhale and sit up bringing your arms over and through to touch the bottom of your shoes, then roll back down to the floor and touch your fingertips overhead.

Tip: Do butterfly sit-ups at a measured pace, using strength, not momentum, to roll up.