For many, losing weight and strengthening the abdominal muscles can be very difficult. The problem with most ab exercises is that people do them the wrong way or they are not choosing the right exercises to target their abs in an effective and efficient way. Traditional crunches or full sit ups may not be the best way of targeting the abs and getting the best overall stomach strengthening workout. Here a few if done properly really effective ab strengthening exercises to try at home.
The bicycle
This is a really good exercise to target the lower abs and the obliques, these are the main muscle groups however this particular exercise has been known to target every abdominal muscle. This is seen by many fitness professionals as being one of the best stomach workouts. With this one you need to lie on your back make sure you are not breathing in that you draw your naval downwards towards your spine. Contract your stomach muscles as you do this to create a strong core. Bring your knees up towards your chest and with your hands securely behind your head bring one knee to your opposite elbow and then vice versa. Aim to to about 10 to 12 reps in sets of 3. You will really feel your muscles working, but this just shows you are actually doing it correctly. You should only consider doing this 3 times a week maximum to allow your stomach muscles time to recover.
The plank
This particular exercise is very popular and extremely effective when it comes to strengthening and targeting the abdominal muscles. With this one, just like the previous exercise you must make sure that you keep your strong by contracting your muscles and holding them in but not breathing. It is vital to breath correctly when you are doing this or any exercise. Lie on your stomach and bring yourself up onto your elbows put your feet in a traditional push up position and remain there. Stay in this position for about 10 to 15 seconds. Do this 3 times, make sure your stomach does not fall to the floor and that your back is straight not arched.
Reverse crunch
This type of crunch is very effective and even more so than the traditional most popular type of crunch. With this exercise it is simply a matter of lying on your back and lifting your hips slightly off the ground and bringing them down again. This targets your lower abs. Do 10 to 12 reps in sets of 3.
Crunches on the ball
Exercise balls are really popular and research has shown that they work very well especially when used for abdominal exercise. With this you have to do regular crunches but sitting on the ball, you have to make sure your back and neck are straight and that you are balanced well on the ball. Aim to do about 10 to 12 reps with an average of 3 sets.
These are some very effective abdominal targeting exercises, before beginning any workout regime, it is always a good idea to consult your doctor to check if you are fit and healthy enough to start exercising.
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