In my last article, we took a look at the best exercises to shape your rear in time for beach season. But as I see it, there’s no point in having a phenomenal butt if you haven’t got a flat, sculpted belly to match.

So this week I share my favourite moves to develop your core and work those abs, meaning you can show off your six-pack this summer.

When I train abs I prefer to get a high volume of repetitions in, so I usually use a timer and aim to perform as many reps as possible in the allotted time without stopping.

Give each of these moves a go for 30-45 seconds, breaking briefly between exercises. Repeat the circuit 3-4 times.

• Running planks

In a plank position on your hands, bring one leg forward under your chest while the other is fully extended behind you, then quickly switch legs.

Continue alternating legs, going as fast as you can but ensuring your body weight stays shifted forwards (shoulders remain over your elbows and wrists) and your core is tight.

• Stability ball crunches

According to research conducted by the American Council of Exercise, performing crunches on a stability ball is one of the most effective ways to activate the rectus abdominis (your abs).

However, it is crucial that you position yourself correctly on the ball. As you sit on the ball, carefully walk your feet forward slightly to lower your lower/mid back on to the ball. Knees should be bent about 90 degrees. Exhale as you squeeze your abdominal muscles and curl your torso forward towards your knees. Keeping your abs tight, slowly lower back down, returning to the starting position.

• Russian twists

Grab a dumbbell or medicine ball and sit on the floor. Brace your core and lean your upper body back. Simultaneously lift your legs off the floor, keep contracting your midsection to remain balanced.

Holding the weight, twist your upper body side to side, tapping the weight to the floor on either side of you. Move quickly, but not so fast that you become unstable.

• Side plank dips

Work your obliques with this move. Lying on one side, prop your upper body up on to your forearm. Ensure that your elbow is directly below your shoulder. Feet should be placed one on top of the other.

Point your free arm upwards — this will ensure that your torso remains open and sideways. Drop your hip downwards towards the floor, hovering about an inch from the ground. At the bottom, squeeze your abs and lift your hips back up to the starting position. Repeat on both sides.

• Hanging leg raise

This exercise works your entire midsection, as well as targeting your back. It also helps to improve grip strength as you hang from the bar.

Using a pull-up bar, grasp it with extended arms about shoulder width apart. If you are strong enough, keep your feet off the floor. If you are new to training, you can use a bench to support your legs and body weight. Contract your abs and raise both knees up towards your chest.

Slowly lower your legs back down to the starting position. If you are more advanced, straighten your legs and lift your feet up until they are parallel with the floor before lowering down with control.

Don’t swing your lower body during this move — think slow and controlled.

• Becky Wright is a qualified personal trainer, nutritional therapist and international bikini fitness champion. She has worked with various clients worldwide, including royalty. Becky works at Alchemy Fitness: www.alchemy.bm. Contact her at becky@alchemy.bm