Crunches do help. You've gotta do the right ones, and do them right, though.
I do 240 crunches pretty much daily - 2 sets of 20 each of partial curls, frog leg crunches, reverse crunches, L crunches, and side crunches, and I have seen results from what I do. You'd be surprised how fast 2 sets of 20 of each different type goes, if you're worried about the time they take up in your day.
Also, the plank exercise is good - go down on the floor like you're about to do a pushup, but lean on your forearms and hold that for three minutes. It's so hard, but it works really well, if you have no equipment.
BUT
Crunches and plank alone won't get you amazing abs. You've gotta add a little bit of cardio and a good diet. Without both of those, you'll have super strong abs, but you won't be able to see it.
Good luck!
-Siren =)


[Edit]: Sure, I can explain. =)
Partial curls : http://www.weight-lifting-workout-routines.com/crunches.jpg

Frog leg crunches are the same thing, except you have your knees out to the side and your feet touching. You know those butterfly stretches they always made you do in gym, where the soles of your feet touch? Do that, and do crunches. Those work your lower abs.
Reverse crunches start like this: http://www.stomach-fitness.com/images/tn_reversecrunch1.jpg
and then you extend your legs forward, so you're flat, but your feet/legs never touch the ground.
For L crunches (I don't actually know if that's what they're called) you start like this: http://www.gimme20.com/files/images/crunches_legs_up.preview.jpg
and then lower your legs from your hips, so you're flat (again) but don't let your feet or legs touch the ground.
Side crunches start like this: http://www.treeoffitness.com/Photos/Side%20Crunches%201.jpg
and then you do partial curls with your torso.
For all crunches (except the reverse and L) you wanna make sure your shoulderblades come off the ground.
Lemme know if you have any other questions. =)

i loved your advice but can you maybe explain the different types of crunches? or maybe you happen to have a website that explains it. thanks so much.

I'm a laid-back 26 year old with a Psychology BA, starting my MA program, and working my way into the field as quickly as I can. It took me an extra Bachelor's degree (in vocal performance and creative writing) to figure it out, but I was put on this Earth to help, to heal, and to love.

I have made the decision to dedicate my life and career to helping others. I am here to do just that.

I've been a member since 2004, and since I signed up, I've gone through quite a lot and learned quite a lot from it. I'm here to give guidance where I had none; no one should have to go through the difficulties I went through alone.

Feel free to visit my website/blog, if you want to read my experience with domestic violence and my thoughts on it.

***While I do tend to answer mental health and other health-related or medicine-related questions, I am by NO MEANS a licensed physician or practitioner of any sort. Any and all advice I give for these questions is from my own experience or studies.***

If you need to get a hold of me quickly, my screen name on AIM is SirenCytherea. Just let me know you found me here.

I'm a strong believer in the idea that there are no stupid questions except the ones left unasked, so, please, keep an open mind, heart, and mouth.

Siren

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