Although we all have the potential to get defined six pack abdominals, they simply won't be visible until the layer of fat covering your belly is reduced. So how, you may ask, do you get rid of this layer of fat to expose the abs underneath? The best way to do this, simply put, is by burning more calories than you consume. This is done through a balanced diet and fitness program that includes weight training and cardiovascular exercises like jogging, cycling and running, as well as adhering to an abdominal exercise routine.

An abdominal exercise routine alone cannot give you the flat abdominals you desire. You must incorporate a sensible diet plan along with your workouts. A good cardio workout boosts your metabolism and gets your body pumped. That thick layer of abdominal fat covering your stomach muscles must be dealt with before your six pack can shine through.

Alright, let's talk about exercises that are safe, effective and can be carried out almost anywhere. Just remember that persistence is the key. Your abdominals need to be exercised every day in order for you to see and feel results.

The bent knee sit-up is a great ab exercise. Sitting on a sit-up board, you will hook your feet under the strap. With your knees bent, at a forty-five degree angle, place your hands behind your head and your chin on your chest. This position will put a slight bow in your back. Now inhale and lie back until your lower back touches the board. Next, exhale as you rise back up to the starting position.

The alternating twisting sit-up is a high impact workout for your abs. You will sit down on a sit-up board and then hook your feet under the strap. As with the bent knee sit-up, keep your knees slightly bent and put your hands behind your head and your chin on your chest. Now then, twist your upper body to the left. While maintaining this position, inhale and lower your torso down until your lower back touches the board. You will return to the starting position, exhale and do the same maneuver again, only you will twist to the right.

Just doing countless ab exercises will not have much of an effect, unless combined with a healthy diet and cardio exercises. If you have an exercise ball, then think about incorporating it into your routine when you do crunches. During any type of abdominal exercise, visualize moving your bellybutton straight through your back. Once you start to see results, you can consider more advanced abdominal training.