22 Best Ab-Strengthening Exercises Using Weights

This dynamic exercise works the obliques and upper abs while keeping your heart rate up. Although this is a full-body move, it doesn't require a lot of space, so you can do it almost anywhere. Use a five- to 10-pound dumbbell or a medicine ball.

• Squat and twist left to hold the dumbbell on the outside of your left leg. This is your starting position.
• Exhale and lift the weight diagonally across your body, twisting to the right until the dumbbell is above your head. Pivot on your left foot as needed.
• Control the weight back to the starting position to complete one rep.
• Remember: you are moving with force but also control. Don't give in to the momentum of swinging the weight around.