Target Your Core: 4-Move Ab Workout for Strength and Definition

Gym | Single Workout | Beginner: 4 exercises

Upgrade your ab training with this targeted 4-move core workout designed to improve core strength, stability, and definition. This workout combines machine-based resistance, bodyweight skills, and rotational barbell movements to challenge your entire midsection from every angle. Suitable for both intermediate and advanced trainees, this high-volume abdominal routine uses progressive reps to push muscular endurance and strength through controlled isolation and dynamic compound movements. Let’s break down each exercise and what it contributes to your core gains.

"Lever Seated Crunch" kicks off the session with a focused contraction of the upper abdominal muscles. Using the leverage machine allows for precise form and isolation, ideal for building hypertrophy in the rectus abdominis. Perform 15 reps in your first set, then reduce reps with each heavier set (12, 10, 10) to progressively overload the muscles and stimulate growth.

Next, the "Lever Seated Twist" brings in the obliques. Often overlooked, these muscles are essential for rotational strength and torso stability. Use a controlled tempo through each rep to maximize resistance and avoid momentum. Like the previous movement, aim for 15, 12, 10, and 10 reps to increase resistance as the movement becomes more intense.

"Captains Chair Straight Leg Raise" utilizes just your body weight but fires up the lower abs intensely. Keeping your legs straight increases the lever length, making this more difficult than knee raises. Maintain a slow, controlled movement—no swinging—to maximize time under tension and core control.

Finally, finish with "Landmine 180" using a barbell. This advanced rotational move strengthens the transverse abdominis and obliques, improving power and athletic core function. Rotate the barbell side to side with full control, emphasizing the twist at the waist—not the arms. This full-body core finisher helps reinforce anti-rotational strength, crucial for sports performance and injury prevention.

This powerful ab workout will have your midsection screaming while improving strength, definition, and rotational control. Add it 2–3 times a week to your regular training regimen to see real results. Make sure to rest 45–60 seconds between sets, keep your form strict, and fuel your body with protein-rich nutrition to enhance recovery and muscle building.

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1. Lever Seated Crunch: 4 sets • 15, 12, 10 and 10 reps
Lever Seated Crunch
2. Lever Seated Twist: 4 sets • 15, 12, 10 and 10 reps
Lever Seated Twist
3. Captains Chair Straight Leg Raise: 4 sets • 15, 12, 10 and 10 reps
Captains Chair Straight Leg Raise
4. Landmine 180: 4 sets • 15, 12, 10 and 10 reps
Landmine 180

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