3 Exercises to Strengthen the Abs
By Virginia Laird
It is never too late to begin toning your abs. The bigger reservation many have is where exactly to begin the journey. Are there any exercises to avoid? What are the best exercises for toning? These are valid questions. When looking for ab exercises it is important to keep in mind that what might be great for your friend may not be exactly what you are looking for. However, there are a few exercises that can help strengthen the abs as well as the back. These are generally low stress. These exercises include:
- The plank
- Reverse leg lifts
- Mountain climbers
The Plank
The plank is a low stress workout that strengthens the entire core. It is important to use this exercise with correct form. As a person strengthens their core muscles, it can help to ease back pain as well as improve posture. Many chiropractors recommend the plank as an exercise to prevent injury to the spine. This exercise is recommended by most fitness instructors and personal trainers due to its various benefits.
Reverse Leg Lifts
Reverse leg lifts are one of my all-time favorite ab exercises. It is easy to feel relaxed with this one. It works all the muscles of the midsection, including the lower abs that can be very difficult to get toned. Again, correct form is super important to avoid injury. Personal trainers recommend a person study the correct form of this exercise, as many people tend to use the wrong muscles, which can cause strain on the back.
Mountain Climbers
Mountain climbers are a great way to get the heart rate going, as well as getting in some great toning. This exercise works almost every muscle in the body. One of the greatest things about this exercise is that it is always with you; it only relies on a person’s body weight, no extra weights are needed. Correct form for mountain climbers is important to avoid injury.
Toning the abs can prove to be a grueling feat. If you are trying to tone your abs, these three exercises can be helpful in achieving your goals. Keep in mind that results take time, hard work, and determination. As always, if you suffer with back pain, it is wise to visit chiropractor before beginning.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Baton Rouge, La.