‘The Godfather of Bodybuilding’ Charles Glass is breaking down how to improve the midsection. In a recent YouTube video shared on June 18, 2025, he detailed five ab exercises that shape the core and build real definition.
“It’s not about doing more, it’s about doing what works. Today, I’m showing you my five favorite exercises. The ones that actually shaped my core and built real definition. These aren’t flashy, they’re effective.”
Charles Glass is a decorated bodybuilding coach boasting years of experience helping individuals achieve their peak physiques. He’s had a hand in developing top-tier Men’s Open pros, including the late Shawn Rhoden, Chris Cormier, and Dexter Jackson. With summer approaching, he outlines how these ab exercises can lead to optimal gains.
Charles Glass’ Top 5 Favorite Ab Exercises
Find his exercise selections featured in his recent YouTube video below:
- Roman Chair Leg Lifts
- Cable Rope Crunches
- Weighted Crunches
- Seated Crunches
- Leg Lifts on Flat Bench
Roman Chair Leg Lifts
Glass offered a technique tip on Roman chair leg lifts, advising lifters to focus on the glutes pulling away from the pad to direct tension to the abs.
“Notice how the individual adjusts the position so their legs are fully supported by the chain. When lifting the legs, I emphasize the importance of causing the buttocks to pull away from the pad.
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During the movement, the buttocks come away from the pad and the bottom, two inches or so. This action directs the tension specifically into the abs.”
Cable Rope Crunches
He favors cable rope crunches for building the upper abs and obliques.
“We’re going to fully contract into the upper abs, squeezing, blowing air out, and coming up very slow. Nice and consistent. Try to focus on nothing but the upper abs and the upper obliques.”
While most stand closer to the machine, Glass recommends standing back about 1-2 feet.
“A lot of people stand close, but we’re going to stand back about 1-2 feet. Back straight, and in the position to pull,” he explains.
Weighted Crunches
During weighted crunches, he said it’s best to lock your eyes on the corner of the ceiling.
“Direct your gaze towards the corner of the ceiling. As you initiate the crunch, focus on moving upward toward the corner while keeping your hands elevated in the air. Ensure that you do not lower your body beyond a parallel position to the ground.”
For those wanting to make this exercise more intense, he encouraged driving your hands above your eyes throughout repetitions.
“To increase the difficulty level, drive your hands directly upward above your eyes. This modification intensifies the exercise and challenges your core muscles further,” he adds.
Seated Crunches
Glass shared how to perform his unconventional seated crunches. He noted that as you begin to crunch, simultaneously perform a calf raise, which will hit both body parts effectively.
“Find a flat bench or suitable surface where you can keep your feet flat on the ground. Begin by grabbing a dumbbell and tucking it securely under your chin. As you initiate the crunch motion, simultaneously perform a seated calf raise. Coordinate the downward crunch with the calf raise movement, ensuring they occur simultaneously.”
“This combined action will engage the abdominal muscles and the calves effectively.”
Leg Lifts on Flat Bench
Hand placement is key for leg lifts on a flat bench, explains Glass.
“Pay attention to the hand placement at the beginning of the exercise, which is behind the back to provide stability. With each repetition, the individual leans forward and engages in the movement.”
“Maintaining a tight body position is crucial. Avoid simply lifting the lower legs upwards without control. Instead, focus on squeezing through the abs with each repetition.”
Regardless of the body part, Glass has tried-and-true methods for improving them. He recently offered fans a secret shoulder press tip for maximizing progress. Glass explained how a simple twist of the wrist at the top of each repetition could be a game-changer for delt training.
Glass continues to offer followers and athletes crucial advice for improving their workouts. He believes these five ab exercises collectively can help anyone build a more impressive core.
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