Sometimes you need a quick tightening routine that won’t slow down your day. I like to do this when I know I’m short on time, but want to squeeze in a little physical activity. I got this routine in the July 2011 issue of Shape magazine. This is an Audrina Patridge original. (So that explains her abs!)

The Plan:

Do this routine two or three times a week with or without 20-30 minutes of cardio.
Sets: 2-3
Reps: 20

Cat Raise

     
Get in a plank position on forearms with elbows under shoulders and hands in fists, palms facing each other. [a] Lift hips straight up. [b] Hold for 2 counts, then return to starting position and repeat.

Cross-Legged Lift

     
Lie face up with legs extended over hips and arms at your sides, palms on ground. Bend right knee, crossing right foot over left thigh. Keeping left leg straight, use your abs to lift hips off the ground. [a] Lower hips, then take legs down to 45 degrees off ground. [b] Raise them to starting position and repeat entire move. Switch sides (crossing left leg over right) halfway through set.

Compound Crunch

     
Lie face up with hands behind head, elbows out to sides and legs extended on the ground. Lift head and shoulder blades as you pull knees toward chest. [a] Lower head and shoulder blades as you slowly extend legs 45 degrees off ground, keeping abs super-tight. [b] Repeat.

Offset Bridge

     
Lie face up with right knee bent, foot on the ground, and left leg extended over hip. Extend arms at sides, palms on ground. [a] Push through right heel as you lift hips until body is aligned from shoulders to right knee. [b] Lower hips until they nearly touch the ground, then repeat. Switch sides to complete set.