In this blog, we’ll discuss the best cardio for abs, among other important factors associated with getting a ripped midsection.

I write a good bit about building abs and strengthening the core. That’s because a person’s core can affect them in so many different areas of life.

Whether you are just sitting at work, walking or taking part in some sort of very intense sport, your abs will always play a part.

If you want great abs, and you want to know the best cardio for abs, check out our list below. Some are also what we consider to be the best exercises for abs.

Are You Doing the Best Cardio for Abs?

1. High Knees

These things work great. They might make you curse a little, too. That’s because they can hurt a little and really work your abs.

Heck, this ab exercise doesn’t just target all of your core, but it really helps you burn up the calories as well.

To do high knees, simply start jogging in place. As you build up your jogging speed, start lifting your knees higher and higher. Get your knees above your waist.

Continue for about 30 seconds. Take a short break, no longer than a minute, and get back after it. That’s right. Don’t rest too long, keep it moving.

If you are just starting out, take it easy. As you progress and your endurance builds, shoot for three to five sets three to four times a week.

2. Woodchoppers

This is definitely one of many favorite core exercises for many people, and maybe one of the most effective exercises for building obliques. And it easily made the list of the best cardio for abs.

Although this exercise is probably less cardio-intensive and more strength training than high knees, I still find it absolutely necessary for shredding your midsection and getting it defined.

To do cable woodchoppers, you can use a cable or bands to get that good burn.

3. Burpees

Burpees are known (or dreaded) by almost everyone that goes to the gym. I definitely wouldn’t say they are loved by everyone, however. These things will make you hurt.

Burpees will also work your core, your chest, and burn tons of calories helping you to become leaner.

To do burpees, first, be ready for the burn. After that, follow the steps below:

Here’s how you do burpees.

1. From the standing position, drop down to your hands and quickly kick your legs back until you are in the push-up position.
2. With your hands still on the ground, quickly bring your knees back in and towards your chest.
3. Quickly, in a high-energy movement, jump as high as you can with your hands in the air.

Burpees will really smoke you. I’d suggest doing 12 to 15 reps of burpees for three sets.

4. Boxing Drills

Ever notice that a lot of boxers are shredded? Well, if you haven’t, check one out some time. For example, take a look at some of the top boxers around, like Vasyl Lomachenko and Canelo Alvarez.

These guys are super lean and have six-packs. So why not be like a boxer?

No, I don’t mean you have to get punched in the face, but incorporating boxing drills into your workout routine can help you lean up, strengthen your core, and help you develop yourself a mean left hook.

5. Jumping Rope

This one sounds too old and outdated to some, but jumping rope works like a champ. And, actually, many boxing champs jump rope.

At any rate, when jumping rope, not only do you burn calories, but you strengthen your core.

As you jump rope, start slowly. Keep your stomach muscles tight, and control your breathing. Focus on keeping a steady rhythm and go for a few minutes before upping your pace.

Over time, as your endurance increases, increase the intensity of your workout. This means jumping rope for longer periods of time and increasing speeds.

The combination of the cardio from jumping rope, while keeping your core tight at the same time, makes this some of the best cardio for abs.

6. Scissor Kicks

And what do you know, it’s another favorite. And, another one of the most effective ways of building a strong and sexy core.

Scissor kicks can be done virtually anywhere. At home, from your hotel room, and of course at the gym.

To do scissor kicks, lay down on your back with your legs straight out.

While keeping your hands at your sides, point your toes out, and alternate moving your legs up and down while crossing one foot over the other.

You will feel this exercise in your entire core. Personally, I do these at least four times a week.

7. The Ab Coaster

The Ab Coaster is something you can buy on Amazon and at some sporting goods stores. This ab-scorching machine can also be found at many big gyms.

It is a favorite ab exercise machine of mine simply because of how precisely it targets your core. The Ab Coaster works your lower abs, upper abs, and your obliques.

It allows you to do a controlled version of knee-ups and twists from side-to-side, all while simply sitting on your knees and sliding along a frame.

If you have access to an Ab Coaster at your gym, give it a try. It can really change up your approach to how you build your core.

8. Best Foods to Eat for Abs

If you are looking to make your abs more defined, not only should you focus on the best cardio for abs, but you should also think about your diet.

Without a proper diet, nothing else matters. Diet is mandatory if you want a six-pack. There is just no other way around it.

So the first thing you will want to do is to cut out eating all of the junk. This means fast food, processed food, and soft drinks. It all has to be removed from your diet.

Having said this, it’s okay to have a “cheat meal.†Many people who are serious about their fitness still cheat and eat something considered “unhealthy†about once a week.

So, feel free to have some pizza or your favorite burger every now and then.

Outside of that, eat smaller meals throughout the day (four to five). Increase your protein intake, eat healthy carbs like sweet potatoes and oatmeal (early in the day), and also eat lots of vegetables.

Additionally, increase your water intake. Drinking water is not only good for you, and your gut health, but if you drink cold water, that alone can burn calories.

Consistency

This is the piece that brings it all together. If you aren’t consistent in doing your cardio, exercising, and eating right, you won’t get your abs and that flatter stomach you so badly want.

So many people get started working towards better health, a better body, and a better set of abs. Many times though, they just don’t reach their goals. And often it’s simply because they couldn’t stay the course and be consistent.

So if you want those rock hard abdominal muscles and that strong defined core, be consistent.

A Recap on the Best Cardio for Abs and Strengthening Your Core

Just as a recap, in this blog we discussed some exercises like high knees, burpees, jumping rope, and boxing drills. These exercises are great for cardio and building abs.

But we also talked about less cardio-intensive ways of building abs. These methods included doing woodchoppers, scissor kicks, and using the Ab Coaster.

However, it’s not just cardio and ab exercises that will make you a stand out come summer when you are walking on the beach. You will also need to adjust your diet. Diet is key to having an attractive looking midsection.

You will need to eat healthy foods, drink more water, and reach your goals through the most important exercise of all—exercising your ability to be consistent.

What do you do for abs?