Exercises for Abs at the Belt Line for Men of Age 60

Being 60 years old doesn't mean you have to give up on having firmer abs; you can tighten up your abs with a few tried and true abdominal exercises. Remember, while effective abdominal exercises can help out at your belt line, you want to make sure you are doing them correctly to avoid injury. Keep these exercises in mind to start your trek to a firmer stomach -- but keep your age and safety in mind.

  1. Injury Avoidance is a Big Deal

    • Tightening up your abdominals may be your primary goal but that goal quickly changes if you get injured. As a 60-year old man, you can't work out like when you were younger; safely exercising should be at the forefront of your routine. Performing three effective abdominal exercises two to three times per week is plenty to provide a stronger core, tighter waistline and better balance. Aim for a rep range of eight to 12 per exercise and remember to warm up before and cool down after your workout.

    Abs and the Bum

    • According to "Growing Stronger: Strength Training for Older Adults," the pelvic bridge is recommended for tightening the muscles within both the abdominal region and butt. Lie down on your mat with your knees bent at 90 degrees and feet flat on the floor. Place your arms by your sides to provide a stable base. Lift your hips straight up until your chest, hips and knees are all in a straight line, then return to the starting position. To avoid injury, don't lift your shoulders or head off of the mat during this exercise.

    Modified Just for You

    • A variation of the hanging leg raise, the seated knee raise targets the abdominals; however, it is also a safe movement that provides balance training. Sit on a flat bench with your back straight, feet together and your hands resting on opposite shoulders. Keep your eyes forward, contract your abdominals and lift both knees toward your chest, making sure to maintain your balance and posture. Once your knees are as close to your chest as you can manage, hold the position for two seconds before returning to the starting position.

    Waist Tightening Crunch

    • The stability ball crunch is an effective exercise for abdominal development, and it provides balance training. Sit on your exercise ball and slowly walk forward while leaning back so your upper and lower back are supported by the ball and your shoulders are hanging off. Keep your feet apart to provide a stable base. Place the tips of your fingers just behind your ears -- don't place your hands behind your head and pull as you may injure yourself. With your eyes focused straight up, contract your abdominals and lift your chin toward the ceiling, holding for two seconds at the top of the movement. Return to your starting position.