There are plenty of benefits when it comes to building core strength and sometimes you need to add a little extra weight to your core exercises to get the best results. Utilizing dumbbells in your ab workouts will force your core muscles to work even harder than they would during regular bodyweight movements. Here are our Top 4 Dumbbells Workouts for Stronger Abs:
- Dumbbell Swing
The Dumbbell Swing is a powerful movement that engages not just your core but your deltoids, forearms and lower body muscles as well. The Dumbbell Swing can also be performed with a kettlebell and is great for developing core flexibility and strength. Here’s how to do it:
- If you are using an adjustable dumbbell, be sure the plates are totally secure
- Hold the end of the dumbbell in your fingers
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart
- Slowly bend your knees and hips as you swing the dumbbell between your legs
- Thrust your hips forward and swing the dumbbell to eye level
- Bring the dumbbell back between your legs
- Repeat
- Dumbbell Side Bend
Trying to get rid of those love handles? Well, the Dumbbell Side Bend might become your new favorite core exercise. This classic weighted ab move allows you to target your obliques and carve out a solid midsection. Here’s how to do it:
- Hold a dumbbell in one hand and stand with your back straight
- Slowly lean to the side that the dumbbell is on
- When you feel a solid bend in your obliques, lift yourself back up to a vertical position
- Switch the dumbbell to the other hand after 8-10 reps and repeat
- Dumbbell Crunch
The crunch is a classic bodyweight movement that targets your core. One way to achieve even greater benefits from this workout is by adding a dumbbell for extra weight and resistance. The Dumbbell Crunch will do a great job of flattening your stomach and tightening your abdominal muscles. This exercise can also be performed on an ab bench for additional comfort and greater results. Here’s how to do it:
- Lie with your back on the floor while holding a dumbbell on your chest
- Keep your knees bent and feet flat on the floor
- Contract your abs as you lift your shoulders and curl your chest towards your knees
- Pause for a moment and squeeze your abs
- Lower yourself back to starting position
- Repeat
- Single-arm Sit-up
The Single-arm Sit-up is the most complex of these four dumbbell core workouts but the results make it a must try. When performed correctly and frequently, this exercise will increase both strength and stability in your core, particularly in your lower abs and obliques. Here’s how to do it:
- Lie on your back with a dumbbell in your left hand
- Extend your left arm straight out from your shoulder
- Place your right arm by your side on the floor
- Extend your right leg out and bend your left knee with your left foot flat on the floor
- Brace your abs in tight as you roll up the spine, keeping your left arm straight up
- Reach your right arm forward in front of your shoulder
- Slowly roll your back down to the starting position
- Perform 8-10 more times, switch sides and repeat
Don’t own any dumbbells? No problem! Marcy Pro offers a selection of top quality dumbbells that are perfect for home gym use so you can begin performing these dumbbell core exercises from the comfort of your own home today.