Most people consider abdominal exercises to be the hardest ones of them all, but they don't have to be tough. You don't need to know 100 abdominal exercises either! Many fitness experts have rated the three abs exercises described here as the most effective. The key to great abs is in working both sets of abdominal muscles. Here are best abdominal exercises for women who want a gorgeous, flat tummy:

Abdominal Exercise # 1

If you are a beginner, this movement using an exercise ball is a good one with which to start to get in shape:

1. Sitting on an exercise ball, place your hands at the back of your head and walk out with your legs until your shoulders and upper back are all that stay on the ball.

2. Lift your pelvis while tightening your abdominal muscles and your butt. Make sure your back is straight.

3. With your elbows out to the side, hands still clasped behind your head, raise your shoulders slowly taking care not to strain your neck. You should feel this in your abs as well as your thighs and your butt.

Hold for a moment and lower your shoulders back to the ball. Repeat. Do this exercise as many times as possible without straining.

Do 2 to 3 sets of 15 reps, resting for 30 seconds between each set. Do this exercise every other day.

Abdominal Exercise # 2

The Bicycle (requires no equipment)

1. Lying on your back on the floor, keep your legs straight and your hands behind your head.

2. Tighten your abdominals and raise your right leg, bending it at the knee. At the same time, lift your shoulders from the floor being careful not to pull your neck.

3. Bring your left elbow to your knee, at the same time; bring your right knee to your elbow.

4. Lower and switch sides. Repeat with your left knee and right elbow.

Bringing the opposite elbow to your knee will work your obliques as well as your upper and lower abdominal muscles.

Abdominal Exercise # 3

Hanging Knee Raises - This requires going to the gym and using the Captain's Chair

1. Hold your body upright with your arms resting on the arm bars with your feet hanging down. Keep your lower back straight and supported with the back rest.

2. Pull in the abdominals and lift both your knees slowly toward your chest.

3. Hold and slowly lower your legs to the starting position. Your abdominals should remain contracted through the entire exercise.

4. Repeat step 2.

This exercise for the abdominals is most effective because it tones your back and arms as well your upper and lower abdominals. It is a great core strengthening exercise.

For optimal results, be consistent and don't just tone. In addition to doing the three best abdominal exercises regularly, you should follow a low-fat, balanced diet and add a cardio routine to your workout to rid yourself of any fat that lies on top of your abdominals. It won't take you long to get in shape. Click on the links in the author bio' below for more infomation.