Many people go all out with a stomach workout routine for one goal only: to get the flat stomach that they've always dreamed of. While a flat tummy certainly looks good on anyone, have you ever considered what good it does? Sure it looks good, but so what? After all that exercising, your stomach should not only look good but should also be toned and strong. Instead of just working on the outer abdominals, you should also strive to build up the strength of your core abdominals. How do you do that? Simple. Take a look at the following exercises. They can help you in building strong muscles in your abdomen. As always, do be reminded that you should always consult a professional before beginning any physical exercise routine, and always go through a warm-up session to avoid any injury.
Toning your torso
Get on all fours, with your knees and 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 sides. 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.
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