Deciding On The Most Efficient And Best Stomach Exercises
Articles - Lifestyle
For most of the population, tummy flab is a huge issue and causes a lot of our body problems. It is not gender-specific, race-specific or even lifestyle-specific, rather it strikes all groups and can be cured by following basically the same rules: better eating habits and exercises. How do you know which are best stomach exercises for you though, and which will achieve the greatest results over time?
by ErikLoebl


For most of the population, tummy flab is a huge issue and causes a lot of our body problems. It is not gender-specific, race-specific or even lifestyle-specific, rather it strikes all groups and can be cured by following basically the same rules: better eating habits and exercises. How do you know which are best stomach exercises for you though, and which will achieve the greatest results over time?

For women who have had children, the news is not disheartening in the least. Although your stomach muscles have been forever changed, you can still have a flat tummy and a toned six-pack to boot if that's what you want to work for. The key here is "work." It does not come easy, and more specifically if you are working around other injuries, it might be hard to find an exercise that works for you. With hard work and determination, however, you can have the stomach you've always dreamed of.

The traditional sit-up or crunch can cause more problems for those with back injuries or chronic pain. There are, however, many variations you can do which don't cause extra pain for the back. One easy way to work especially your lower abs is to lay flat on the ground. When you are laying flat, flex your feet and raise them to a 90 degree angle to the rest of your body. Now, slowly lower them until they are just above the floor, and not touching it. Holding that pose for only a moment, begin to raise them slowly to the original position you had them in. If you support your back with a pillow or towel, then this is a back-pain free exercise where most of the work is done in the slow, controlled motion of your legs.

If you like combo exercises that work out more than one body part at a time, try a slide exercise for your midsection. By lifting up into a crunch position, which is not very far up, then you can create the tension you need to tone those abs. Crunch to the left, slide to the right, lay back down. Crunch to the right, slide to the left, lay back down. Repeat that entire process for one set, however many exercises you deem to be a set, usually ten to twelve at a time. For those that are short on workout time, this can save a lot of time as well, since you are cutting out an extra oblique exercise that you would normally do.

Strengthening your back muscles can help you in all areas, but especially when you're working out your stomach area. If you've ever heard of a plank, then you know what a great exercise it can be for both of these things. Named for the position, it's exactly what you think of when you envision a "plank." Laying flat with toes on the ground, and forearms and elbows holding up your upper half, then use your ab muscles to pull your belly button back towards your spine. This exercise, when done correctly, really strengthens both sides of your body, the back and your stomach. You can also increase your holding time for this position by practice over time.

You can also use this plank exercise for your side abs as well. Once you are laying on your side, pick yourself up on one elbow and the side of your foot, so that your body creates an empty triangle space between you and the floor. Hold this position for about 30 seconds while pulling your abs in towards your back. Once you're finished, switch sides and do the same thing on the other side. This is a great mild exercise that will achieve measurable results over time.

If you subscribe to a fitness magazine, check out their web site also. They have wonderful videos, workout routines and advice from personal trainers on how to work different trouble spots on your body. If you don't subscribe to any certain magazines, you can still find much valuable material on the Internet regarding tummy flab and how to get rid of it. On-Demand subscribers can also download workout videos to their cable box and work on their "middle jiggle" in the comfort of their own home.

However you attempt to beat it, remember a couple of key things. It takes time and you won't see the results you dream of overnight. You will however feel the results of your workout overnight and that is a great indication that you are headed in the right direction. Keep your eyes on the prize, use the best stomach exercises for your body and fitness personality, and you will reach your goal by doing the right thing for your body.

DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as information only and is not to be taken as financial advice.