POV: you just booked a summer beach trip, but then cringe as you remember that your gym membership has been collecting dust since the New Year. It’s okay – we’ve all been there. For a lot of us, our gym goals definitely includes having a midsection that rival’s Kendall Jenner’s, but having a six-pack is not just about looking good in a bathing suit. A strong core is essential for performing our everyday activities. We use our core for everything from walking and running to even lifting heavy groceries (looking at you, Trader Joe’s). Plus, strengthening your core also prevents your risk of painful back injuries.

If you want to build a strong core and flatten out your middle (especially that stubborn lower belly), check out these moves below for the best at-home abs routine for a killer midsection. And if you want the booty to match, check out our fave butt shaping exercises for the BBL effect at-home.

planks

Planks seem harmless at first but they actually pack a pretty powerful punch when it comes to core strength. Planking works every muscle in your core, as well as your shoulder and glute muscles. Don’t sleep on them.

Directions:

Start on the ground on your hands and knees.

Next, lower onto your forearms, keeping them shoulder-width apart.

Step your legs back one at a time so that you are balancing on the toes of each foot. Be sure to keep your back as straight as possible and try not to lift your butt into the air.

Engage your core as you hold this position for 10 seconds, rest, and repeat. Do this 3-5 times.

As you progress, try holding your plank for longer intervals of time. Aim to work up to holding your plank for one minute at a time.

(For intensity, add dips to your plank by twisting onto your side and holding).

dead bug

Honestly, the name is pretty fitting…
Start by lying on your back with your knees lifted and bent at a 90-degree angle (also known as tabletop position).
Lift both arms up in the air straight above you. Simultaneously lower your right arm above your head while lowering and straightening your left leg towards the floor.
Hold at the bottom for one count then return to the starting position. Repeat on the other side. Aim for a total of 20 reps for 3 rounds.

reverse crunch

Yes, it’s exactly what you think.
Begin by lying on your back, hands flat at your sides. Bend your knees and lift them up to a 90-degree angle (tip: keep your feet together).
From here, raise your hips and crunch inward, bringing your knees to your chest.
Hold for 2-3 seconds and then we’re gonna flatten ourselves out by straightening our legs (without letting them touch the ground) and repeat.
Aim for 3 rounds of 10 reps. Remember to pace yourself – don’t try to fly through these.

bird dog

Start on your hands and knees on the ground. Make sure your back is straight and your hips are squared over your knees and your wrists just below your shoulders.
From here, maintain your balance as you slowly lift your right arm out in front of you while simultaneously straightening and lifting your right leg out behind you.
Pause here then bring both your left arm and right leg in towards each other in a crunching motion.
Bring your left arm and right leg back to the starting position and repeat. Aim for 3 rounds of 12 reps on each side.