This exercise is perfect for trimming and firming up the abdominals after a holiday of festive eating!  It not only strengthens the abdominals, but it has emphasis on the internal obliques and transverse abdominis as well.

• Lie face up, with legs extended on floor, holding a stability ball firmly between lower legs, arms at sides.
• Contract (draw in) abs, then bend knees in toward your chest.
• Straighten legs above hips or slightly lower if possible, then lift upper torso off floor and reach for ball with hands.
• Grab ball and lie back down, legs still extended above hips, bringing ball overhead and back toward, but not touching, floor.
• Lift upper torso again, bringing ball over chest, and place it back between legs; bend knees and extend legs back to starting position to complete 1 repetition and repeat.
• Beginners do 8-12 reps, progressing to 15.
• Advanced do 25-30 repetitions.

Tip On Form:  To protect your lower back, keep the area between your lower ribs and your hips firmly planted on floor at all times.

No responsibility or liability is accepted by Shawn Ferrando Studio Fitness for any loss or damage suffered by any person as a result of adopting the exercises and information in this material.