7 Weighted Ab Exercises — For When You Really Want to Torch Your Core

Weighted plank variations are great ab exercises, because planks already activate your core; adding a weighted movement makes you work harder to stay stable, recruiting more muscle engagement.

• Start in a plank position with your legs wider than hip distance apart. Hold onto a dumbbell with each hand, keeping your wrists locked and straight.
• With your core tight and your glutes engaged, exhale, rowing the weight up to your chest while drawing your left elbow toward the ceiling. Keep your hips square to the floor.
• With control, return the weight to the ground and repeat on the opposite side. That's one rep.