Flat abs are the ultimate dream. It’s one of the most popular fitness goals out there! And if you’re looking for new ways to make it happen, the Ugi ball is about to be your best friend.
You might be wondering – what the heck is a Ugi ball? It’s basically a cross between a traditional medicine ball and a bean bag, making it weighted and squishy. It’s also similar in size to a beach ball.
Unlike standard air-filled exercise balls, a Ugi ball can double as a weight. So if you’re craving those washboard abs, try these five Ugi ball exercises.
The Top 5 Ugi Ball Exercises
1. Weighted Crunches
On their own, crunches will tone your abdominal muscles. Adding a Ugi ball will take it up a notch by adding, even more, resistance to the workout.
Lay on your back. Bend your knees and place your feet flat on the floor, keeping them side by side. Slowly lift up your legs at the same time. Your thighs should form a 90-degree angle with your pelvis.
Carefully place the Ugi ball on top of your ankles. Start doing crunches as usual, but don’t lower your legs. By balancing them in the air, you’ll strengthen your abs, thighs, and buttocks.
Reps: 15
2. Balanced Lunge
Lunges are usually linked to thighs and legs. But with a Ugi ball, it can really work out your core.
Place the ball on the floor, keeping it about 12 inches in front of you. Balance your right foot on top.
Lunge forward, making sure that your left knee never touches the floor. Hold for five seconds and straighten to complete one rep.
Reps: 10 on each side
3. Crab Kick
Forcing yourself to balance on a Ugi ball can do amazing things for your abs. With the crab kick, you’ll activate your core, arms, and thighs.
While sitting on the floor, place the ball behind you. Balance your hands on top and put your feet flat on the floor. Your knees should form a 90-degree angle.
Tighten your abs to hold this position. Kick up your right knee toward your chest, and lower it to complete one rep.
Reps: 15 on each side
4. Balancing Climber
Combining balancing with repetitive movements will do your abs well. Once you bring in a Ugi ball, you’ll push your muscles even more.
Put your hands on top of the ball. Extend your feet behind you, taking care to keep your arms straight.
Bend your right leg so that your right knee is under your chest. It should look like you’re climbing! Quickly jump to switch legs. This completes one rep.
While you jump, you’ll have to balance your arms simultaneously, which will engage your core and shoulders.
Reps: 15
5. Ball Twist
Twisting workouts can do more than slim the waist. Your abdominal muscles will become stronger, providing better support for your spine and back. For more resistance, use a Ugi ball.
Sit on the floor and bend your knees. If you’re just starting out, place your feet flat on the floor. Otherwise, keep them hovered for a bigger challenge.
Grab a Ugi a ball and face straight ahead. Twist your torso toward the right, tapping the ball on the floor. Return to center. Repeat toward the left then straighten to finish one rep.
Reps: 15
Worried about balance? Do these workouts near a wall. Start out slow and reduce the number of reps as needed. Over time, you’ll be able to do more reps.
Remember, muscle burns more calories than fat. These resistance exercises will make your muscles bigger and stronger, helping you melt away the belly fat. It’s the perfect way to get some serious flat abs.
