Working the abs is something you will always find in any workout video, book or program. Everyone wants that elusive 6 pack, but few have the discipline to do what it takes to get them. You see, the problem is that abs are truly made in the kitchen. What you eat, effects 90% of how they look. If you are holding water, ate too much sodium, have elevated cortisol or insulin levels, then you will have excess fat and water over your abdominals. A clean diet will help shed the fat, balance your hormones and help you see your hard work. Getting abs to “show’ vs getting them functionally fit leads to two different types of workouts.
Anatomy of the abdominals
Understanding how they work is key for getting an effective workout and also determining how to get “ab chunks” vs. a nice flat stomach. Checkout this article about all the different types of abs muscles and how they function.
The actual work…
This is one of my favorite abdominal circuits, and I first started doing it in my bodybuilding days! No, it won’t make you bulky but it will train your abdominals different than the traditional planks, hovers and abdominal holds. Do each exercise for the reps listed and then move onto the next one. Your goal is to work up to 3 rounds of this exercise.
- Regular Crunch x 25
- Reverse Crunch x 25
- Side to Side Crunch x 20 each side
- Regular & Reverse Crunch together x 20
- Bicycle Crunch (25 to each leg or 50 total) – the #1 best oblique exercise, see here
If you like this article, keep coming back for more (and share it)…Corry’s favorite workout to write, you guessed, its all about the abs!