Pilates is one of the best ways to develop strong, defined abs without heavy weights or high-impact movements. Known for its focus on core strength, Pilates builds a stable and toned midsection through controlled, precise exercises that target deep abdominal muscles.
With a commitment to these workouts, you’ll see improvements in your core strength, posture, and flexibility—all while moving toward that six-pack. Here are the 16 best Pilates exercises for building strong, sculpted abs.
The Hundred
Start lying on your back with legs in tabletop. Lift your head, neck, and shoulders, extend your arms, and pulse them up and down for 100 counts.
This classic warm-up targets deep core muscles.
Roll-Up
Lie flat, arms overhead, then roll up slowly until reaching your toes. Roll back down with control.
This move lengthens and strengthens the abs, emphasizing control and flexibility.
Like The Style Trunk’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Single-Leg Stretch
Lying on your back, bring one knee toward your chest while extending the other leg. Alternate legs.
This exercise targets the lower abs while building coordination and stability.
Double-Leg Stretch
In tabletop position, lift your shoulders and extend both arms and legs away from your body, then circle arms back to the knees. It strengthens the entire core and promotes a longer, leaner look.
Criss-Cross
Lie on your back with hands behind your head. Bring one knee in and twist to reach the opposite elbow. Alternate sides.
This move engages obliques for a defined waistline.
Like The Style Trunk’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Leg Circles
Lying flat with one leg raised, draw small circles in the air. This stabilizes the core and challenges your balance, working deep abdominal muscles.
Teaser
From a reclined position, extend your legs and lift your upper body into a “V” shape, reaching for your toes. Teaser builds core strength and balance in one dynamic movement.
Plank
Get into a forearm plank position, keeping your core tight and back straight. This full-body exercise strengthens the core while also engaging shoulders and legs.
Like The Style Trunk’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Side Plank
Start on one forearm with your body in a straight line, lifting the opposite arm. Side planks target the obliques and help create a stronger, more balanced core.
Knee Tucks
In a plank position, bring one knee toward your chest and alternate sides. Knee tucks activate the lower abs and improve hip flexor strength.
Scissor Kicks
Lie on your back with legs straight. Lift them off the ground and scissor one leg over the other.
This exercise isolates the lower abs for increased definition.
Like The Style Trunk’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Hip Lifts
Lie flat with legs extended toward the ceiling, then lift your hips off the mat. Hip lifts focus on the lower abs and create a sculpted appearance.
Mountain Climbers
In plank, alternate bringing each knee toward your chest at a steady pace. Mountain climbers burn calories and tone the entire core, adding a cardio element.
Bird Dog
From a tabletop position, extend one arm and the opposite leg. This balance-focused exercise strengthens the core while improving coordination.
Like The Style Trunk’s content? Follow us on MSN.
Roll-Over
Start lying on your back with legs up, then lift your hips and legs over your head. Roll back down slowly. The roll-over improves core strength and spinal flexibility.
Spine Twist
Sit tall with legs extended and twist from side to side. This movement works the obliques, enhancing flexibility and mobility in the torso.
More from The Style Trunk
- 25 Stylish Short Haircuts for Women Over 60 Who Want to Look Younger
- 16 Haircuts Men Find Incredibly Attractive on Women
- Seniors, Stop Making These 17 Fashion Mistakes for a More Flattering Look
- Want to Firm Up Your Skin? Try These 15 Superfoods
- 22 Subtle Wardrobe Mistakes That Instantly Make You Look Cheap
Like The Style Trunk’s content? Follow us on MSN.
