Gets Abs Like Ciara!

Wishing you looked as great in a bathing suit as Ciara in her new "Ride" video? Of course you do but what are you going to do about it? Check out BV's tips that's what! Follow these easy fitness tips and you'll be on your way to a killer physique for this summer.

Start small!
The littlest changes to your daily routine can make a difference when you are making a conscious effort to tone up and get in shape. Everything from walking to work, to taking the stairs instead of the elevator, can help you see results.

Fuel up
While you don't want to stuff yourself before exercise, you do want to make sure you have enough in your system so that you aren't too weak to give it your all. Low-fat, high-carbohydrate snacks such as bananas, nuts or wheat bread are a good way to get your body workout-ready.

It's all in the water
Stars like Ciara and her BFF Kim Kardashian have all spoken out about the importance of drinking lots of water and fluids. To get in shape the right way, make sure to introduce at least 6 glasses of water to your daily routine.

Pay attention to your tummy
When Ciara was interviewed by 'Women's Health' earlier this year, she said one of the ways she keeps her tummy tight is by "keeping my stomach squeezed in throughout the day." The old trick of tightening your stomach muscles during the day helps to not only tone your stomach muscles, but also improves posture and keeps your mind focused on a flatter belly.

Mini-meals
Fitness experts, as well as Ciara herself, often suggest eating 5-6 mini-meals throughout the day to help boost your metabolism. Try a menu like a whole grain waffle and fruit for breakfast, a sandwich for lunch, baked chicken with broccoli for dinner and small snacks of crackers, fruit and yogurt in between.

Run, girl, run!
Cardio is the triple threat that will help you lose weight, tone and stay healthy. If you're anti-treadmill, try going for a run with your dog, or imitating Ciara's dance moves. By incorporating 30-45 minutes of cardio into your routine 3-5 days a week, you'll look better, feel better, and even sleep better.

Crunch time
Ciara's abs (and the way she moves them!) are simply mesmerizing in the "Ride" video. There are a ton of ab exercises out there, but the classic crunch can be done anytime, anywhere. For added toning of love handles, cross and raise your legs in the air, and then alternate reps on each side (crunch to the left, crunch to the right).

Push it, push it real good
Fortunately, you don't need expensive machinery or weights to get toned arms like Ciara's–the good ol' fashioned push-up will do just fine! If the regular push-up feels too much for you, make it a little easier by crossing your legs.