Lower Ab Exercises: Leg Lifts Using An Exercise Ball

The Set-Up

• Laying on the floor, place an exercise ball between your feet.
• Stretch your arms out above your head.
• Tighten your abs and squeeze the ball with your feet.

Performing The Movement

• Take a deep breath in and slowly start lifting your feet off the floor - being sure to keep your lower back against the floor.
• Exhale as you raise your feet.
• At the same time that your feet are moving up, bring your arms straight over your head - keeping your back flat on the floor as you do.
• Grab the ball from your feet and slowly lower your arms and feet towards the floor.
• Stop when your heels are just above the floor.
• Take another deep breath in and start your feet and arms back up again.
• This time, you'll grab the ball between your feet at the top of the movement.
• Now return to the starting position with the ball squeezed firmly between your feet.

Performance Tips

• Remember to breathe out as your legs move upward and breathe in when they return to the starting position (just above the floor).
• Keep your abs tight so as to protect the lower back.