Summer is in full force even if your beach body is not exactly there yet. A common problem area is the stomach. Washboard abs or simply a flat stomach is one of the hardest things to achieve. Here are three of the most effective ab exercises to help you tone up in a hurry.

The Bicycle. Start by lying face up on the floor and lace your fingers behind your head. Bring your knees towards your chest and lift your shoulder blades off the ground while being careful to be gentle on your neck. Straighten your left leg out to a 45 degree angle and turn the upper body to the right, bringing the left elbow towards the right knee.
Switch sides, bringing the right elbow towards the left knee and continue to change and repeat for twelve reps.

The Vertical Leg Crunch. Lie face up on the floor and extend both legs straight up with knees crossed. Contract your abs to lift the shoulder blades off the floor keeping your legs straight up in the air. Try to keep your legs in the same position and imagine bringing your belly button towards your spine while pulling up. Lower your legs and repeat for twelve reps.

The Plank. Lie face down on mat or comfortable floor and rest on your forearms. Palms should be flat on the floor. Push off the floor, raising up onto your toes and resting on your elbows. Keep your back flat, in a straight line from head to heels and keep the focus on your stomach muscles. Tilt your pelvis and contract your abdominals to hold the position for about 20-60 seconds and repeat for 5 reps.

Keep in mind that abdominal exercises alone will not give you flat abs. It will tone your stomach muscles and keep your core strong but in order to see the toned abs you will need to get rid of the fat overtop. Doing high intensity cardio workouts for about half an hour a day 5-6 days a week and following a healthy diet will ensure you see results.