How to use each movement The best way to build your abs is to treat them like any other muscle—build them WITH WEIGHT. These are my favorite exercises to really force you to compress your core with additional weight. Include these movements at the beginning or end of your workouts. 3-5 times a week is enough volume. Aim for 2-4 sets of each exercise and between 10-20 reps. As you progress, increase the reps and weight! If you can’t do toes to bar, use momentum or try knees to elbows!