To build abs, look to the frog
Everyone covets defined abs, and the frog pelvic tilt will help you get there.
The exercise comes from Pasadena-based fitness expert, video host and teacher Tracey Mallett (www.traceymallett.com). Mallett is the founder of Booty Barre, a technique that combines elements of dance, yoga and Pilates to strengthen and stretch the body.
No prior experience in any of those disciplines is necessary, but maintaining good form is. Make sure that the spine, neck and head are aligned and that the movements are slow and deliberate.
What it does
The move targets the internal and external obliques on the sides of the abdomen as well as the transverse abdominis, which is below the internal obliques. Concentrate on the quality of the exercise, maintaining good form, rather than quantity.
How to do it
Lying on your back on a mat, raise your legs and bend them so that your knees are over your chest. Cross your ankles and turn your knees out for a frog pose. With your hands behind your head, raise your head, neck and shoulders off the floor. Lift your pelvis up as you exhale. Then extend your legs straight up, lowering your head, neck and shoulders onto the mat as you inhale.
How much
Do five pelvic tilts, then cross your legs the other way and do five more. To make this more difficult, extend your legs out at an angle instead of straight up.
