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Resistance bands. They’re lightweight, affordable, and ridiculously versatile. But if you’re only using them for leg day or to make your warm-ups more interesting, you’re seriously missing out. They can work wonders on your abs too—yes, those muscles we all promise to work on every Monday.
Why resistance bands? Unlike crunches or planks, these bands introduce constant tension, forcing your core to stabilize and work harder with every rep. The best part? They’re super portable, so you can do these workouts in your living room, at the gym, or even in a tiny hotel room. Ready to feel that core burn? Let’s dive in.
1. Standing Woodchoppers
Ever feel like your obliques need some love? This move’s got you covered.
- How to do it: Anchor your resistance band at chest height. Grab the free end with both hands, stand with feet shoulder-width apart, and pull the band diagonally across your body. Think of it as chopping wood—just way less messy.
- Pro tip: Keep your hips steady; let your torso do the twisting.
2. Seated Band Twists
Grab a mat (or your favorite carpet spot). This is a seated twist, but with added spice.
- How to do it: Sit on the floor with your legs extended and the band wrapped around your feet. Hold both ends, and twist your torso side to side. Slow and steady wins here—no need to rush.
- Why it works: Your obliques will hate you (in the best way possible).
3. Plank Band Rows
Planking is fun… said no one ever. But adding a band? Total game-changer.
- How to do it: Loop the band around something sturdy. Get into a plank position and grab the free end with one hand. Row the band toward your torso while keeping your hips square.
- Core benefits: You’re not just working your abs—you’re also firing up your back and arms. Multitasking, right?
4. Dead Bugs with Resistance Band
Don’t let the name fool you; this move is killer.
- How to do it: Lie on your back, loop the band around your feet, and hold the ends. Extend one arm and the opposite leg while keeping the other side steady.
- Feel the burn: It’s a sneaky way to activate your lower abs (the ones that are notoriously stubborn).
5. Side Plank Resistance Band
Side planks just got a glow-up.
- How to do it: Anchor the band at floor level. Get into a side plank, grab the band with your top hand, and pull upward.
- Bonus: Your shoulders will feel this one too.
6. Kneeling Band Crunches
If you’re missing cable machine crunches, this is the next best thing.
- How to do it: Anchor the band high, kneel down, and hold the ends at shoulder level. Crunch forward, focusing on your abs, not your neck.
- Quick tip: Exhale as you crunch—it makes a difference.
7. Banded Bicycle Crunches
Bicycle crunches, but fancy.
- How to do it: Wrap the band around your feet and lie on your back. Perform bicycle crunches, making sure to fully extend each leg against the band’s resistance.
- Why you’ll love it: It’s a double whammy for your upper and lower abs.
8. Standing Side Pulls
Your obliques will be begging for mercy.
- How to do it: Anchor the band at hip height. Stand sideways to the anchor, grab the band with both hands, and pull it across your body while keeping your arms straight.
- Pro tip: Keep your core tight and controlled. No jerking motions!
9. Reverse Crunch with Band Assistance
Need help nailing reverse crunches? The band’s got your back (literally).
- How to do it: Anchor the band low and loop it around your feet. Lie on your back and pull your knees toward your chest. The band adds resistance, making it way more effective.
- Bonus: Your hip flexors get a little action too.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—9 resistance band moves that’ll fire up your core and maybe even make a day a little less dreadful. These workouts are great on their own or as part of a larger routine. So grab your band, cue up your favorite playlist, and get to work!
What’s next? Add a couple of these moves to your next workout and see how your abs feel tomorrow.