When it comes to physical fitness, we all have varying goals and aims we want to achieve. For some, they want to build up their muscle mass to an admirable level, while others may want to lose some amount of weight or get in better shape overall.

One of the most common areas that people focus on when trying to get in better shape is their stomach.

The abdominal muscles play a crucial role in our overall fitness and having a strong core can help improve our posture, balance, and stability while reducing the risk of back pain.

For those looking to transform their stomach, we’ve compiled 5 simple yet effective workouts that take only a few minutes each day:.

1. Crunches

Crunches are perhaps the most widely-known abdominal exercise and can be done by anyone regardless of skill level.

To do a crunch, lie flat on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Place your hands behind your head and lift your upper body towards your knees, keeping your lower back firmly on the ground.

Pause at the top of the movement before lowering yourself back down to the starting position.

Perform 3 sets of 10-15 reps each day to start seeing results.

2. Planks

Planks are a static exercise that focuses on strengthening your core muscles, particularly your abs and lower back.

To do a plank, get into a push-up position, but instead of moving up and down as you would in a push-up, hold your body still in a straight line from your head to your heels.

Keep your abs and glutes tight and hold the position for as long as you can before releasing.

Begin with holding the plank position for 10-20 seconds and increase the time as you get stronger.

3. Bicycle Crunches

Bicycle crunches are a variation of the traditional crunch that works not just the abs but also the obliques on the side of your torso.

Start by lying flat on your back, with your hands behind your head. Lift your head and shoulders off the floor, and bring your right elbow towards your left knee, which should be bent and close to your chest.

Straighten your right leg out while simultaneously twisting your torso, so your left elbow goes towards your right knee. Alternate the movements, simulating a cycling motion with your legs, while keeping your head and shoulders off the ground.

Do 3 sets of 10-20 reps on each side, every day.

4. Reverse Crunches

Reverse crunches are excellent for targeting the lower abs and requiring no equipment, making them perfect for doing at home or on the go.

Lie down with your hands at your sides and your knees bent. Bring your knees towards your chest, lifting your hips off the ground. Pause at the top of the movement before releasing back down to the starting position.

Perform 3 sets of 10-15 reps each day.

5. Side Planks

Side planks are another variation of the traditional plank, specficially targeting your oblique muscles on the sides of your stomach.

To perform a side plank, start in a plank position, then rotate your body to the side so that your weight is supported by one arm and the side of one of your feet. Hold the position while keeping your abs, hips, and glutes engaged.

Switch sides and repeat the movement.

Try holding the position for 10-20 seconds at first, and increase the time as you get stronger and more comfortable with the exercise.