Dancing With The Stars Ab Workout

In just a little more than a week, "Dancing with the Stars" will kick off its new season, filling my TV with almost-forgotten B-listers, an obscene amount of sequins and a whole lot of spray tan. Look, I like seeing a linebacker attempt the cha-cha as much as the next person, but one thing I really love about this show is watching how the contestants' bodies transform over the course of the season. So what do the professional dancers do to get their celeb partners in tip-top shape? I chatted with Lacey Schwimmer (shown here with Lance Bass) to find out how she and new partner Steve-O are getting ready for the competition.

Me: Dancers are known for their fabulous bodies, and you're no exception. Is there anything you've been doing to get in even better shape before the season starts?

Lacey: Before I go into a competition, I always try to eat right. I cut out soda and replaced it with water about a month ago and I've already lost four pounds and feel amazing.

Me: Anything in particular you and Steve-O are working on while you're training?

Lacey: Yes! When we started Steve-O told me 'I have flabs -- abs with fat on top of them.' So we've been doing 100 sit ups before we practice every day. And I really like having someone to work out with, so we've been motivating each other.

Me: OK, so tell us about your ab routine so the That's Fit readers can get rid of their 'flabs.'

Lacey: We do three different types of crunches to work all the muscles.

First, we do a regular crunch and we focus on lifting our chins to the ceiling instead of pulling them into our chests -- which is the worst thing you can do!

Next, we do a cross-over crunch. We cross the right foot over the left knee and then reach to touch the right knee with the left elbow. Then we switch and do the other side. It's great for obliques!

Last, we do a circular crunch. You start in regular crunch position and then come up towards your right side, then circle upwards towards the middle and circle down to your left. Then, switch to the other side. It doesn't feel great, but it gets every corner of your abs, plus hit your back muscles.