subject: Learn How To Get Powerful Ab Muscles Without Visiting The Gym [print this page] Everybody wants those amazing looking abs that you see on the photos of models strewn across the many health and fitness magazines being sold today. Having strong abs are not just a cosmetic thing about looking cool. Your abdominals pay a very important role in the health of your body. Also known as the core stabilisers these muscle groups are situated in the stomach or mid section area of your body. Their main purpose is to ensure the pelvic and spinal or trunk of the body remains stable while we move. This is very essential when we are taking part in strenuous physical exercise. Strong abs ensures that are body moves with efficiency and maximum power. They also help to lower are risk of injury when lifting heavy objects.
To strengthen the core muscles you do not need to lift any weights as you do with your biceps or quad muscles. The benefit of this is that no expensive fitness equipment is required. Core muscle exercises mostly involve creating tension to build strength. These types of exercises are essential and should be a part of any well balanced fitness program. When working from a strong core base your body movements will move more effectively.
The following 2 exercises can be done in the comfort of your own home.
The Crunch
This is a more challenging variation of the traditional sit-up exercise. This variation will target the core muscles groups and also the hip flexors.
To begin the exercise lie on a flat surface and place both your hands on the side of your head. Begin to sit up and at the same time bring your knees towards your chest. Fall back and as you do that stretch out your legs. Then repeat again. The key thing is to ensure your feet do not touch the floor. If you have not exercised the core muscles before then try a less challenging alternative such as the half sit up. When you have mastered that you can give the crunch a go.
The Twist Sit-Up
This is sit-up with a twist. The twisting movement targets and works your external obliques. Start by lying flat on the floor. Place your hands on the side of your head. Keep your knees bent slightly and both feet kept on the ground. Start raising your torso in a curling fashion twisting it to the right. At the same time lift your right knee towards your chest area. Repeat the same routine with the left side.
If you have any medical conditions or injury then always consult a doctor or physician for advice before doing any new type of exercise.
