Prone Cobra

There are abdominal exercises that have simple, obvious names, such as the original crunch exercise. Then there are some obscure exercises whose names are a bit more exotic, but whose efficacy in terms of helping to flatten stomach regions may still be worth noting. One such abdominal workout is the Prone Cobra. This exercise requires no exercise equipment, save maybe a floor mat for comfort. It is said to be helpful for strengthening both the central abdominal muscles and certain lower back muscles.

The Prone Cobra begins with the individual’s body face down flat on the floor. With arms laid out on the floor and hands by the hips with palms up, the individual then contracts his or her core muscles in the abdomen, as well as in the lower back and buttocks. Then, while exhaling, the individual raises his or her chest off the floor, arching the upper body backward toward the sky. When arching, the hands should be rotated so that the thumbs point toward the ceiling. Then, with the body fully arched the individual holds the position for two seconds, returning once again to the original position and repeating the routine. The Prone Cobra is typically considered to be an intermediate exercise that will probably be somewhat difficult but may prove helpful in terms of working to tighten and flatten stomach muscles.