Abs Building Exercises that Work
Large, pumped up muscles similar to those displayed on the models of body building adverts are often what people associate with strength training. Of course, building muscles is at the heart of any training program but body building that result in massive muscles typically involves long, strenuous workouts. Normally, you would need to undertake strenuous body building exercises for 30 minutes, 3 times a week
You don't have to build huge muscles, there are benefits to be gained from exercising that anyone who doesn't desire to 'bulk up' can understand. Stronger muscles can reduce your risk of damage to your back and other parts of your body. As your metabolism is raised when you strength train, it can also help in reducing your weight.
It is not even necessary to go to a gym to exercise, just clear a small space wherever you are and you can exercise in your surroundings. Here are few Anytime and Anywhere Exercises:
a) Crunch Lie down on the floor on your back with your feet supported above the ground on a box or something that will raise them up. Support your neck with the help of cushion. Place your buttocks as near as possible to your feet. Lock your elbows. Now slowly lift your head up just a few centimetres. Hold this raised position for 2 seconds and then slowly come down. Repeat this exercise 20 times to make one set. This exercise is great for really building your abs and you will be able to feel it working very soon.
b) Lifting your Toes and then Lowering them Stand on a floor flatfooted with your toes pointing straight ahead. Hold onto something to balance yourself. Now VERY SLOWLY, raise your toes as high as possible. Hold on for 2 seconds and then come down very gently and slowly. Repeat this 20 times to make one set.
c) Push ups Lie down on the floor facing towards the floor with your body weight on the palms of your hands. Now slowly, straighten your arms whilst keeping your back straight and facing right ahead. Hold for 2 seconds and then slowly lower your body back to the ground. Repeat this 5-10 times to start with and then try to build this exercise up to 20 times per set.
d) Wall Squat Stand straight with your back against the wall. Now, gently slideyour body down to the sitting position. Make sure that your back is still against the wall. Hold on to this position for 15 seconds and then gently slide up, still keeping your back against the wall. Repeat this 5-10 times to start with and then gradually build this up to 20 times per set.
If you are interested in an more energetic workout, you can simply add ankle or wrist weights to your usual low-impact exercises. Increasing the weight by a few extra pounds forces your heart and muscles to work harder. Using a weight vest is another option if you are interested in building extra definition in your upper body. The secret to success with this type of body building equipment is to make sure you don't put too much stress on your muscles, which can cause serious damage.
Other exercise equipment that you may be interested in, may include a treadmill. This will let you exercise for 24/7 and 12 months a year independent of the weather. Make sure that you learn more about treadmills and how to make the best use of one before buying one.
Roger Titley manages a number of successful websites including www.sixpackpro.com which is dedicated to creating the stomach that you dream of.
Published July 23rd, 2008