Best ab workouts for men - Starting off

Look, we all want a set of abs to brag about. Problem is, the six pack is probably buried under a keg unless you're an extreme training addict, MMA fighter or genetic freak.

So it's time to get off the couch and start a routine to swear by. It's 2012 kids, and we aren't getting any younger. You want extreme training? We'll give it to you.

Here are a few workouts to help sculpt those abs into something worthy of a magazine cover. You'll find getting ripped isn't as impossible as it looks.

Elbow planks

- A good warmup for beginner and intermediate ab workouts.

Assume a pushup position, but with your elbows bent and your weight resting on your forearms. Your body should form a straight line. Now brace your abs as if someone were about to punch you in the gut. Hold for 30 seconds. Rest 30 seconds, and repeat once.

  

Single leg side planks

- A good warmup for beginner and intermediate ab workouts. Lay on your side and extend your upper body with your forearm perpendicular to your body. Lift your leg and keep it there as long as you can. For an extra challenge, use ankle weights.

Hip lifts 

- Lay down on your back. Keep legs straight and don't let them rock back as your lift your hips. Keep palms on the ground facing up - don't use your hands to push up. Only use your hips for raising - it's tougher than it looks!