Visible abs are one of the most common fitness goals, but Brian Pruett believes many people overcomplicate the process. Instead of chasing endless ab circuits or quick-fix challenges, the NASM Certified Personal Trainer recommends focusing on three core exercises while building the habits that actually reveal a six-pack.
In a recent YouTube video, Pruett shares the three movements he performs consistently to strengthen his core, along with the lifestyle habits he says matter far more than doing hundreds of crunches.
Hanging Leg Raises Build More Than Just Your Core
Pruett begins with hanging leg raises, calling them his favorite exercise for building a strong midsection.
“The reason why I like hanging abs so much is because you’re not just hitting your lower body,” he said. “You’re also stabilizing the whole time, and you’re working your grip strength, and you’re working your shoulder stability and mobility.”
He recommends performing controlled knee raises or straight-leg raises for sets of 10 to 20 repetitions over three rounds. Beyond targeting the lower abdominals, the movement challenges grip, shoulders, and core stability simultaneously.
Russian Twists Improve Rotational Strength
The second exercise is the Russian twist, which Pruett says deserves more attention despite its simplicity.
“I picked Russian twists because you’re working on anti-rotational strength,” he explained.
Performed with the heels elevated and the core braced, the movement trains the obliques while improving trunk stability during rotational movement. Rather than counting repetitions, Pruett prefers working for 30 seconds followed by 15 seconds of rest, completing two or three rounds.
Plank Pull-Throughs Develop a Functional Core
The final movement is the plank pull-through, an exercise Pruett believes is often underestimated because it appears too easy.
“It’s going to build your core, tighten up your midsection, and most importantly, it’ll help you build a functional trunk,” he said.
He emphasizes maintaining a straight line from head to heels while resisting any rotation as the weight is pulled across the body. According to Pruett, keeping the hips square throughout the exercise is what makes the movement so effective for improving core stability and reducing injury risk.
Visible Abs Come From Lifestyle Habits
While the three exercises strengthen the abdominal muscles, Pruett stresses that seeing a six-pack depends primarily on reducing body fat.
“No amount of planks, crunches, Russian twists… none of that matters if you want to see your abs,” he said. “Those all build your abs and strengthen your abs. But if you want to see your abs, it just comes down to getting into a low and lean body fat percentage.”
To achieve that, he recommends lifting weights three to four times per week, making walking the primary form of cardio, and maintaining a calorie deficit through a diet centered on protein-rich whole foods while limiting liquid calories.
The Takeaway: Keep It Simple and Stay Consistent
Pruett’s approach centers on consistency rather than complexity. A handful of effective exercises combined with regular strength training, daily movement, and sound nutrition can build a stronger core while creating the conditions needed for visible abs.
Instead of searching for the perfect ab workout, his advice is to master the basics, stay active, and give the process enough time to work.
About the Author
Jeremiah Oliva
Jeremiah Oliva is a writer passionate about fitness, sports, and active living. He has experience in songwriting and managing content and social media for online radio and magazine platforms.
He covers HYROX, CrossFit®, and competitive fitness, with a focus on performance, mindset, and athlete development.
Outside of writing, Jeremiah trains in boxing, cycles, explores the outdoors with his kids, and plays the guitar.
