How might you make your stomach flat without doing crunches?

More muscle less fat: Even the most toned abdominal muscles will not reveal the abdomen you want if they are buried under a beer gut. Decreasing body fat is a key component of washboard abs. That said, anything that strengthens your core (sit ups, crunches, leg lifts, torsion, etc ) all play a role in building those muscles. If you don't want crunches try swimming or other whole body exercises.