Abstract: Anchor plates for a framework abdominal exercise device provide greater stability, a stable axis of rotation, and a better location for the axis of rotation. A base pad is flanked by two brace supports that have a wide lower portion for distributing forces and a narrower upper portion for engaging the abdominal exercise device. The brace supports are separated by a greater width at their lower portion than at their upper portion. Intermediating the disparity between these separating widths is an intermediate portion that slants inwardly and acts as a shock-absorbing spring to provide better performance by the anchor plate. The base pad of the anchor plate may have an undersurface of a non-skid material to provide greater friction with an underlying floor, thereby preventing slipping and sliding. In alternative embodiments of the present invention, side reinforcing ridges may extend forwardly from the lower forward portions of the brace supports to provide greater support to the brace supports.