Squats may be known for sculpting your lower body, but this exercise is a killer challenge for the abs too. "This move will fully engage all your anatomical core slings (stretches of fascia that connect your muscles)," says Linda LaRue, core performance trainer for the LA Lakers. "The benefit is that not only will you get fitter, flatter abs, but you'll be burning calories while improving your balance, coordination, and speed."
Begin by pulling your shoulder blades down and lifting your breastbone slightly. Draw your belly button into your spine while keeping a constant Kegel (imagine that you're holding in urine). Place the palms of your hands on either side of a small to medium stability ball and squeeze hard (this will help engage your diagonal upper core slings). Lean against the wall at a diagonal angle. Inhale into a deep squat and then forcefully drive up to standing. That's one rep. Try 2 sets of 12 reps, resting 30 seconds between sets.
To make it more challenging, float one foot slightly above the floor behind you while keeping a neutral spine during the entire movement.
