If you really want to get your strongest, firmest abs you want to choose exercises that target all the muscles of the core, including the rectus abdominis (or the "six pack"), obliques, transverse abdominis, and the lower back.

While there are a wide variety of exercises you can do for the abs, there are some that are better than others. In fact, the American Council on Exercise commissioned a study to find out the best and worst ab exercises.﻿﻿

Most Effective Bicycle Maneuver

Captain's Chair

Crunches on Exercise Ball

Vertical Leg Crunch

Reverse Crunch Less Effective Ab Rocker

Exercise Tubing Pull

Traditional Crunch

Ab Roller

Long Arm Crunch

2:04 Watch Now: 5 Crunches That Actually Work Your Abs

Keep in mind that if you want to change the look of your midsection, you may also need to change your diet. Eating a balanced, nutritious diet can be part of a comprehensive program for building a strong, lean core.

This workout includes all of the exercises that came out on top for firing up the most muscle fibers in your abs. Do this workout two to three times a week for your best abs.