5 Ab Exercises for Maximum Definition
Check out my 5 fave ab exercises to make those belly lines pop!
I’ll be the first to admit that after I get done with a blistering cardio or strength workout, the last thing I feel like doing is lying down and squeezing out another 20 minutes of ab work. But whenever I neglect my core, I really end up regretting it. When I don’t work them often enough, my abdominal muscles bag and sag (especially after holding two extremely large babies not so long ago), and my balance goes south. Having a weak core can set you up for all sorts of injuries, too, especially if you’re really pushing it in the weight room, playing a sport, or doing any kind of heavy lifting at work. When I do give my core some love, I’m so much happier with the overall look and feel of my body. The core is the genesis of every movement. When my abs are strong and balanced, I feel strong and balanced, and I can crank up my performance in all arenas.
The abdominal wall is made up of three main muscle groups: the rectus and transverse abdominis, external obliques, and internal obliques. The words are a mouthful but they really just mean the front and sides of your belly. This collection of ab exercises is gonna hit each of these muscle groups, and sometimes all three at once. Paying equal attention to each group will really help you achieve a strong, toned look. You can work your abs as often as you want, so don’t be shy about tacking these on to one of your regular routines. Once you get the hang of these ab exercises, you can build your core while you’re watching TV, playing with your kids, or anytime you have a spare 15 minutes.
ATTENTION! Please keep in mind that unless you’re eating well and have a somewhat low body fat percentage, you’re not going to see much definition, even if you can do 100 sit-ups with 50 pounds strapped to your chest. Abs are 95 percent diet and 5 percent work. So, for maximum definition, put down that slice of pizza and let’s shred!
Sliding Pikes
Sit-Ups n Side Planks
Double Leg Lifts
Torso Rotations
Standing Crunches
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Image and Videos: Sarah Olive Bergeson
