Exercise for Abs – Power Training for Ripped Abs
Every fitness guru and professional trainer has an educated opinion on what the best exercise for abs are. The truth is some ab exercises work better than others, for some people. This often depends on a person’s body type or fitness level, or fitness goals. The traditional sit-ups and crunches work for some while others may not get so great results from them. There are however a few foundational exercises that will work the core muscles of pretty much anyone. These may seem basic yet unorthodox for abdominal training, but they’re extremely effective.
Exercise for Abs – Deadlifts and Squats
You’re probably thinking ‘Did I read that correctly?’ Yes, you certainly did. Deadlifts and squats are both considered powerlifting movements and those who are just trying to get lean and burn fat tend to steer clear of them. But the fact is you contract your abdominal muscles far more intensely while performing these exercises than with any ab machine or crunch movement. These movements are tried-and-true superior exercises for abs. You don’t necessarily have to perform these exercises with a massive amount of weight either. If you do them with strict form using moderate weight, you’ll still be utilizing your abs to a great extent. Try doing three sets of 8-10 reps for each exercise.
Exercise for Abs – Stiff Leg Deadlifts and Hyperextensions
Ok, now we’re really getting off track. Stiff leg deadlifts and hyperextensions are lower back exercises. They are indeed. However, you also use your abdominal muscles when you perform these movements. Your lower back is just as much part of your core muscles as your abs and should be strengthened likewise. Both the abdominal and lower back regions complement one another and work together. I’m sure you’ve also noticed your lower back being sore after doing certain abdominal exercises. You need both areas to be strong and fit. You can start by performing three sets of 10-12 reps for each exercise. You’ll certainly feel your lower back and hamstrings working, but these are also great exercise for abs, or rather your overall core.
Exercise for Abs – Sprints
This is yet another strange exercise one might think as one of the exercises for abs. When you run sprints, every muscle in your body tightens, especially your abs, and they’re held tight for the entire sprint. A great workout is to count out about 40 yards and sprint one way then walk back and repeat doing this for a total of 10 times (start out doing 5 and work your way up). Make sure you warm up and stretch a little before taking off at full speed and certainly stretch afterwards.
These methods will definitely help you tone up your mid-section. You’ll build muscle and burn fat simultaneously forcing your abs to have that rock hard look. Try doing each method once a week giving your self a day of rest between each workout.
