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You dream of a flat stomach. You drool after washboard abs. You don’t mind working hard as long as you look good. But just take a moment to think; is it enough just to look good? More importantly, you should think about getting that trimmed and toned tummy because a good strong stomach is good for you. Instead of paying your attention to the outer abdominals only, you should also work out your core abdominals. The following exercises can help you in building strong muscles in your abdomen. And remember, before you begin any exercise routine, consult a professional, and always go through a proper warm up session to avoid any injury.
Toning Your Torso
Get on all fours, with your knees ad hands on the floor. Keeping your stomach pulled in towards your spine, extend your left arm in front of you. Now, while keeping your left arm stretched out, extend your right leg behind you. Switch hands and legs and repeat the entire set. When doing this, keep in mind not to let your pelvis sway. Keep it in position. Simple isn’t it?
Butt Burner
Lie on your back. You can use a towel or a mat to cushion your spine. Now bend your knees so that your feet are flat on the floor and put your arms by your side. Squeeze your butt and lift your pelvis off the floor, making sure that the rest of your body stays in line. Try to raise your pelvis to a 45-degree angle, so that your upper body is a straight line from your head to your knees. Hold this position for about five seconds. Now slowly lower yourself back to the floor. Repeat for an entire set.
Crunchless Crunch
Theoretically, this is a simple exercise. However it can be a bit tricky to do. What it does is make you use your lower abdominals muscles to pull your belly button toward your spine. First, either lie on your tummy or kneel, depending on which is the more comfortable for you. You can try it both ways and decide which you like better. Now, relax your body and try to move your belly button inwards towards your spine using only your lower abdominal muscles. Hold this position for ten seconds or longer if it is too easy for you. Your objective is to hold the contraction until you can no longer feel it, or until you feel that your other muscles are doing more work than the transverse abdominus. If you feel either of this, then it’s time to let the contraction go.
Scissor Kicks
Lie on the floor and place your hands under your butt, while keeping your back to the floor. Now slowly raise one leg up to about 10 inches, and then slowly lower it back to the floor. As you are lowering your leg, raise the other one. Repeat this routine for an entire set. Now make sure that you maintain proper control as momentum can disrupt your routine. Make sure that your upper body stays on the floor throughout the whole routine.
The above are but some of the exercises targeted to building strength in your abdominal muscles. For more exercises look for those that work out your core abs especially your transverse abdominal muscles. Many of Pilate’s components can also help you achieve stronger abdominal muscles.
