If you’re looking to carve out that sharp, defined V-shape at your lower abs — commonly known as the V-cut — you’re not alone. It’s one of the most sought-after features in a chiseled core, and while diet and body fat play a big role, targeted exercises can help bring out that definition.

The V-cut is formed by the lower portion of the rectus abdominis (your six-pack muscles) and the obliques on either side. To really make it pop, you need to hit those areas with precision. So, if you’re ready to start sculpting, here are 6 effective exercises to help you get closer to that V-tapered look.

1 – Reverse Crunches

Why it works:

Unlike regular crunches that target the upper abs, reverse crunches zero in on your lower abs, which are crucial for that V-cut look.

How to do it:

  1. Lie flat on your back with your hands by your sides or under your glutes.
  2. Lift your legs so your knees are pointing toward the ceiling.
  3. Contract your lower abs and lift your hips off the floor, bringing your knees toward your chest.
  4. Slowly lower back down and repeat.

Sets & Reps: 3 sets of 15–20 reps.

Pro tip: Focus on squeezing your lower abs — don’t use momentum to lift your hips.

2 – Jack Knives

Why it works:

This move is a killer combo of leg raises and crunches, hitting both the lower abs and hip flexors.

How to do it:

  1. Lie on your back with arms extended straight toward the ceiling and legs stretched out.
  2. Simultaneously lift your legs and upper body so your hands meet your toes.
  3. Slowly lower back to the starting position with control.

Sets & Reps: 3 sets of 10–15 reps.

Note: Keep your lower back pressed into the floor to avoid strain.

3 – Leg Raises

Why it works:

Leg raises are a staple for lower ab development — and they’re especially effective when done with control.

How to do it:

  1. Lie flat on your back with hands under your glutes or lightly touching the floor.
  2. Keep your legs straight and lift them up to about 90 degrees.
  3. Slowly lower them back down without touching the ground.
  4. Repeat.

Sets & Reps: 3 sets of 15–20 reps.

Bonus: For more intensity, try adding ankle weights once it gets easier.

4 – Side Bends

Why it works:

Side bends are great for targeting the obliques, the muscles that frame the V-cut and give it that sharp taper.

How to do it:

  1. Stand tall with feet shoulder-width apart.
  2. Hold a dumbbell in one hand (or use bodyweight).
  3. Slowly bend sideways at the waist — don’t lean forward or backward.
  4. Return to center and repeat on the other side.

Sets & Reps: 3 sets of 15 per side.

Tip: Keep your core engaged and go slow — this isn’t about speed.

5 – Ab Roll Outs

Why it works:

Ab rollouts are a full-core exercise that especially target the transverse abdominis, helping to create a tighter, more defined midsection.

How to do it:

  1. Kneel on the floor with an ab wheel or dumbbell in front of you.
  2. Roll forward slowly while keeping your core tight — only go as far as you can without arching your back.
  3. Pull yourself back to the starting position using your abs.

Sets & Reps: 3 sets of 8–10 reps.

Warning: Don’t let your hips sag or your back arch — form is everything.

6 – Flutter Kicks

Why it works:

Flutter kicks are a simple but brutal lower ab and hip flexor exercise that doesn’t require any equipment.

How to do it:

  1. Lie flat on your back with your hands under your glutes or lightly on the floor.
  2. Lift your legs a few inches off the ground.
  3. Alternate kicking one leg up and the other down in a fast, controlled motion.

Sets & Reps: 3 sets of 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Key point: Keep your movements small and controlled — it’s not about height, it’s about tension.

Chasing the V-cut is about more than just looking good — it’s about building a strong, functional core. These 6 exercises are your tools to sculpt the lower abs and obliques that make that V-shape stand out.