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Top 10 Most Effective Ab Exercises

By Paige Waehner, About.com

Updated April 03, 2009

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8 of 10

Full Vertical Crunch

Full Reverse Crunch

In a full verticul crunch, you really work the abs by involving both the upper and lower body. To do it right:

1. Lie on your back and extend the legs up towards the ceiling.
2. Place hands behind your head (lightly cupping it) and contract the abs to lift the shoulder blades off the floor.
3. At the same time, press the heels towards the ceiling, creating a 'u' shape with the torso.
4. Lower down and repeat for 12-16 reps.

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