The best abs exercises are ones that work more than just one part of your abdominal muscles. Yes, there are multiple layers of muscles (plus soft tissue, nerves, and blood vessels) that make up the full abdominal wall. And even though you can’t see or really feel them all, they’re really important for keeping your entire body strong and stable.

The plank is one of the best exercises for a flat, toned stomach because it works all the muscles in your core, including the rectus abdominus (the “six-pack muscles” you can see), transverse abdominus, internal and external obliques, hips, and back.

Why not just focus on the six-pack muscles? Strengthening your entire core is not only crucial for sculpting a flat stomach, but these muscles also provide support for the entire body in everyday movements, reduce back pain, and improve posture. Plus, planks burn more calories than sit-ups or crunches because they recruit muscles in the legs, arms, and rear too. It’s truly the ultimate total-body toner!

If you’re tired of building up your plank time, the body saw exercise is a great progression of the exercise. During the movement, you’re creating a massive contraction in your abs. It’s great for anyone looking to improve their core strength. Plus, as you increase your core strength, you’ll also improve your balance, posture, and overall stability, which will leave you at a lower risk of injury.”

To get the core-blasting benefits of body saws at home, follow the instructions below. You might not go back to regular planks ever again.

How to do a body saw plank

1. Find a place where you can slide your feet. Start in plank position with your back flat and elbows under your shoulders. Squeeze your glutes, hamstrings, and quads
2. Use your elbows to push your body back, making sure to maintain your proper plank position with a flat back the entire time. If your back starts to arch or sag, you’ve gone too far.
3. Exhale and return to your starting position, squeezing your abs the entire time. Do three sets of 12 reps, resting in between.

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