No crunches, no problem — sculpt your abs in just 10 minutes with this core workout

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Five moves to help you build a stronger core

a woman's abs
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Not everyone enjoys doing crunches in an ab workout, and I include myself in that group. For me, it's how uncomfortable the ground feels on my back and neck as I move through the exercise.

Trainer Britany Williams clearly gets this struggle and has put together a core routine that leaves crunches out entirely. It only takes 10 minutes to complete. Williams demonstrates each exercise, so there's no guesswork when it comes to your form.

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Watch Britany Williams' 5-Move Core Workout

This routine focuses on strengthening your abs and building more functional, all-around core strength. The exercises target your entire midsection, including your deep core muscles and obliques, to improve stability, posture and control.

Rather than isolating just the surface muscles, you're training your abs to work the way they should during everyday movement.

This workout only takes 10 minutes, but don’t let that fool you. Core workouts are often shorter because your abs tire quickly, especially when using slow, controlled movements that really target the muscles.

The good news is you don’t need a long session to see results. Short, focused ab routines like this one can be incredibly effective when done consistently with good form.

Unfortunately, abs don’t just pop up overnight. Everyone’s bodies are different, so how quickly you see definition depends on things like genetics, body fat, diet and how your body responds to training.

If visible abs are your goal, the best way to get there is by combining core workouts like this one with regular cardio, strength training and a balanced diet. You can’t pick and choose where your body loses fat, but lowering overall body fat can help bring out muscle definition.

That said, having a strong core isn’t just about looks. It helps with posture and balance and makes everyday movement feel easier.

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Jessica Downey
Jessica Downey
Senior Fitness Writer

Jessica has been a fitness writer at Tom’s Guide since 2023, bringing three years of experience writing about health, fitness, and the great outdoors. Her passion for exercise began during her childhood, where she spent weekends hiking and competing in local athletics club events. After earning a master’s degree in journalism from Cardiff University, Jessica found the perfect way to combine her love of storytelling and fitness into a career.

Jessica is passionate about testing fitness gear and tech, using her reviews to help readers make informed buying decisions. She ran her first marathon in April 2024, finishing it in 3 hours and 48 minutes. Through her training, she’s developed a deep understanding of what it takes to grow as a runner, from effective workouts and recovery techniques to selecting the right gear for every challenge.

When she’s not at her desk, Jessica enjoys spending time in the kitchen crafting new recipes, braving cold water swims and hiking.

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