Resistance training, cardio workouts, walking to the car, vacuuming the carpet, or even just sitting at a desk is an opportunity to work your abdominal muscles. The key is to consciously Engage the Abdominals. Do this by contracting your stomach muscles as if someone were about to punch you in the stomach then pulling your belly button in towards the spine.

While resistance training - Protect the spine and strengthen your abs by purposefully engaging the abdominals while performing squats, pull-ups, push-ups, pressing movements, step-ups or lunges. Every exercise is potentially an abdominal exercise.

During cardio - Whether you are walking, jogging, riding a bike, or using a machine at the gym, engage your abdominals and you will be strengthening the abdominals as you work your heart and lungs.

Carrying a suitcase or heavy bag in one hand - Always a great opportunity to strengthen your entire core area. When picking up the bag and while walking, focus on keeping you shoulders level (ensure you are not leaning to either side). This will challenge your abdominals, especially your oblique on the opposite side of the arm holding the bag. Be sure to carry heavy objects on both sides.

Raking the lawn - As you pull the rake in towards and across your body, contract the abdominals. Focus on pulling with your abs.

Shoveling snow - Engage the abdominals while pushing the shovel, picking up the snow, and throwing the snow. This will give you strong abs and protect your lower back at the same time.

Sitting at a desk - Engage the abdominals, straighten both legs and hold.

Sitting on a couch - Engage the abdominals, straighten both legs and hold. Try bending the knees and bringing them part way towards the chest for added challenge.

Standing in line - Engage the abdominals and lift one foot off the ground without moving the rest of the body.