If you are just beginning an exercise program or if you are on a weight loss program try these abdominal exercises. Start with the beginners routine and move on to the intermediate routine when you feel you neeed more of a challenge. They are simple, safe and effective. Done consistently they will help you firm and tone your stomach as well has helping to prevent low back pain...

Home Routine #1 - Abdominal Exercises For Beginners
Perform this routine of abdominal exercises 2-3 times a week leaving at least a days rest in between each workout. Start with 2 sets of 10-15 repetitions for each exercise. As you improve add an extra set and perform 20 repetitions.

1. Wrist ups
- Lying flat on your back bend your knees to right angles keeping your feet flat on the floor.
- Place your palms on your thighs and sit up until your fingertips reach your knees as you breathe out. Return to the start position.
- Tip: Imagine you have an apple under your chin. That's about the distance your chin should stay away from your chest during the movement.

2. Supermans
- Lie on your front with your arms stretched above your head (like superman)
- Raise your right arm and left leg about 6 inches off the ground (or as far as you comfortably can). Hold for 2 seconds and relax.
- Repeat with the opposite arm and leg.

3. Static contraction
- Lying flat on your back bend your knees to right angles.
- Contract your stomach muscles and try to push the small of your back into the floor.
- Hold for a count of 5 seconds remembering to breathe gently.
- Tip: Keep your neck and face relaxed. Many people have a tendency to force a lot of blood into their face when doing this exercise... not very pleasant when you come to get up!

After 4-6 weeks on this routine move onto...