Abstract: An abdominal exerciser (20) having a relatively flat base member (60) and a centrally contoured outer member (70) with a sufficeint recess to receive the bony protuberances of the user's spine on one method of operation and the fingertips of both hands in a second method of operation. The members are pivotally connected at one end and a V-shaped opening can be formed at the opposite end by disposing a pivotally moving spring (40) between the members. Additionally, in one embodiment, a resistance measuring gauge (50) can be attached to the base member (60) and positioned through a hole (128) in the centrally contoured outer member (70). The user directly exercises the abdominal muscles by forcing the members together against the resistance of the spring (40) when the device is used either fixed betwen a stable surface and the low back, or fixed between the abdominal region and the grip of both hands.