Score Pilates Abs With 6 Easy Moves: Self.com : Done correctly, Pilates exercises activate abs more than crunches do, says exercise physiologist Michele Olson, Ph.D., of Auburn University in Montgomery, Alabama; some are over 200 percent more effective! Olson took to the mat herself to model this six-pack of super sculpters. Do them three times per week on nonconsecutive days and ab-racadabra! A core to adore! #SELFmagazine