May 12, 2023 2 min read

Standing ab exercise targets every muscle in your core to build strong, defined abs.

These exercises help you support lifelong balance, posture and stabilization while minimizing the strain on your neck, back, knees and wrists. Standing ab exercises may also be perfect for those struggling with pain or discomfort in their hips.

To help you get started, we tapped CEO of Indigobluestyle and certified fitness trainer Keiana Armanifor her favorite standing ab moves.

Best Standing Ab Exercises

High Knee Lift

Your core is important for stability and balance, and high knees can help you strengthen your core muscles. Performing high knees brings your heart rate up, increases the metabolism, and helps you burn more calories throughout the day. Because high knees are a high-intensity cardio move, they can help you burn calories and lose weight.

Front Squat and Pivot Press

The squat portion strengthens the core, quads, and glutes. The press part works the shoulders and back.

Side Lunge Touch

The alternating side lunge targets your glutes, quads, hamstrings, and inner thighs, and helps to strengthen your core, calves, and outer thighs.

Rainbow Slam

The Rainbow Slam is a great way to challenge the core, arms and legs with one big movement that can be altered to fit all fitness levels. It improves speed, power, balance and, of course, strength. The movement can also help you enhance overall athletic performance, improve cardiovascular conditioning, and develop multi-directional core strength.

Single Arm Press

The single arm press is a great exercise for strengthening the shoulders. It also strengthens the core muscles, most notably, the anterior core. Done correctly, it is a great way to improve your stability and increase upper body strength.