Wesley Vissers Shares Best Four Core Exercises for Washboard Abs

Wesley Vissers, a top Classic Physique bodybuilder, relies on focused core training to build washboard abs. In a YouTube video posted March 23, 2025, on his channel, he shared his four favorite exercises to carve a strong, defined midsection, including one specifically targeting his lower abs. After placing fifth at the 2025 Arnold Classic on March 1, he’s now competing at the 2025 Detroit Pro on March 29. 

Wesley Vissers’ Top 4 Ab Exercises

• Seated Cable Crunches
• GHD Sit-Ups
• Reverse Leg Raises
• Vacuums

Cable Crunches

Vissers starts with seated cable crunches to target his upper abs. He sits on a flat bench facing away from a cable machine, sets the rope attachment high, grabs it with both hands behind his head, and pulls it down toward his lap while curling his torso forward. He moves slowly to keep tension on his abs, performing multiple sets to feel the burn. This exercise helps define the top part of his midsection, giving it a sharp, chiseled look.

GHD Sit-Ups

Next are GHD sit-ups, which work his entire core. He sits on a glute-ham developer machine, locks his feet under the padded rollers, leans back until his head nearly touches the floor, then rises to a seated position with his hands near his head. He completes several sets, keeping his back straight to avoid strain. This move builds strength and power in his abs, making them stand out while supporting bigger lifts like squats.

Reverse Leg Raises

Then come reverse leg raises to target his lower abs. Vissers lies on his back on a flat bench, grips the bench’s sides for support, keeps his legs straight, and lifts them toward the ceiling until they’re nearly vertical. He performs multiple sets, lowering his legs slowly to feel the stretch. This exercise strengthens his lower abs, helping him develop a more defined and fuller look in that area for the stage.

Vacuums

Finally, Vissers does vacuums to tighten his waist. He stands in the gym, pulls his shirt up to reveal his midsection, exhales fully, and draws his stomach inward as much as possible, holding the position for 20 to 30 seconds. He completes several rounds, focusing on a strong squeeze each time. This classic technique helps him maintain a slim waist, enhancing the contrast of his abs and creating a sharp, defined look.

Wesley Vissers turned professional in 2017 after earning his Pro Card and went on to win the Mr. Golden Era title that same year, quickly making a name for himself in bodybuilding. At 6 foot 2 and weighing between 216 and 234 pounds, his impressive build has gained him a loyal following and admiration in the sport.

In 2024, he achieved a surprising victory over Ramon Dino at the Arnold Classic in Ohio on March 1, followed by another win at the UK event on March 15. These victories were major highlights, but his performance dipped later that year with an eighth-place finish at the 2024 Olympia on October 12. He returned to the Arnold Classic in 2025, placing fifth and losing his title to Mike Sommerfeld.

Having competed on the Mr. Olympia stage several times, Vissers views it as one of bodybuilding’s greatest achievements. On March 9, 2025, in a YouTube video, he announced his participation in the 2025 Detroit Pro this weekend, hoping to secure a spot in the 2025 Olympia, after which he plans to take a break from competing. He also noted he might not compete at the 2025 Olympia, choosing instead to focus on improving for a stronger return in 2026.

These core exercises are a vital part of his training routine. They build a stronger midsection, which supports him in lifting heavier weights during exercises like squats and deadlifts, crucial for his tall frame and ongoing goals in bodybuilding.

Watch the video below:

Stay on top of the latest fitness news and updates by adding Fitness Volt to your Google News feed: You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for even more content.