Bicycle Crunch Exercise came in at the top spot in the research done to find the best exercises for the rectus abdominus.

A study done at San Diego State University compared thirteen common abdominal exercises in hopes of finding the best way to strengthen the abs. Each of the 13 exercises was ranked for muscle stimulation (measured with EMG) in the rectus abdominis, the external obliques and internal obliques.

Do the Bicycle Crunch right Lie flat on the floor so that your lower back is pressed to the ground and your core is engaged. Put your hands beside your head & lift your knees to about a 45-degree angle. Slowly, at first, go through a bicycle pedal motion. Alternately touching your elbows to the opposite knees as you twist back and forth. Breath evenly throughout the exercise.