Achieving a flat and toned midsection is much harder than losing weight, which means it requires effort and a much higher level of commitment. When it comes to choosing abdominal workouts, the general rule is to go with those that yield the best possible results with the least amount of effort and repetition. One of the things to remember is that you need not be at the gym for this type of workout since you can do it right at home with the help of a few basic exercise tools.
Here are some of the abdominal workouts you should try:
The Ball and Reach Routine
This one requires the use of a crunch ball or balance ball. With both feet on the ground and your back flat on the ball, extend your arms upward as if you are reaching for the ceiling then contract your midsection just like when you do crunches. Hold the contracted position for at least 3-5 seconds then release. Repeat the stance at least 5 times, rest, then resume once again.
This particular exercise is recommended for novices since it is not as physically taxing as doing crunches or sit-ups but it does get the job done. In addition, the ball and reach routine is also easier on the back so even older people can do it without experiencing pain afterward.
The Bicycle
All you will need for this one is a flat and comfortable surface. With your hands behind your head, prop your legs like you do when riding a bicycle. Make sure that you feel the tension on your abs before you start the pedaling motion which should last 10 counts. This exercise is one that does not only help tone your ab muscles but your thighs as well.
To prevent injuries, make sure that you do not put tension on your neck or try to pull it up during the exercise. A variation of this routine is the leg raise which is a bit more challenging but definitely worth doing especially when you start to advance in your workout progress.
The Jackknife Routine
Lie down on a comfortable mat and raise your arms and legs as high as possible or until they are touching. Do this routine for 10 counts then rest for about 30 seconds before doing another round. Some say that when it comes to abdominal workouts, this is much easier to do than crunches and that it is more effective as well. Either way, you can count on great results and expect less fatigue so you can still squeeze in some cardiovascular exercise afterward to keep up with a calorie burning program.
3 Abdominal Workouts For Great Looking Abs