Since I was a child, I have heard people say, I must lose my gut.  The theory was that if one did sit-ups or crunches, The fat would eventually disappear. Are you kidding me. If it took years to put on that tire that blocks the view to your feet, how in the world would anyone really believe that abdominal exercises would take away a gut. Well people invest in abdominal exercise gadgets all the time. Just check out the infomercials where models and body builders promise you that they have a great physique because of the apparatus they are paid to get you to invest in.

Lets take an inside look. While there’s no denying the importance of working your abdominals. It is important for improved balance and stability, a toned midsection and greater ease in other physical activities as benefits of strong abdominals

Having a strong abdomen also reduces your risk of injury during other exercises as you’re better able to keep your spine from arching excessively, which, for example, is a common form problem when lifting heavy weights.

Any exercise that works the rectus abdominus, inner and outer obliques or transverse abdominus can be classified as an abdominal exercise. Through my research as an Exercise Physiologist, I have found that abdominals only flex for 30 degrees during a concentric (positive) movement going up, when one attempts to increase the range, hip flexors and erector spinae muscles kick in those the intensity on the abdominals decreases.

The old sit-up boards and sit-up tests we did in school and the one they do in the military is almost completely using hip flexors, not abdominals as they claim. For 0ver 25 years I have heard trainers talk about isolating the abdominals. Sadly it is impossible. One would have to cut your legs off to do it, which is not happening.

When doing any abdominal exercise it is important to contract- the abdominals not suck in your stomach. This will take pressure off the antagonist muscle (Opposite) the Erector Spinae-Low back.

As you watch the video, you will understand what I am talking about.

Interesting that when you do your exercises without momentum or acceleration like the 22 Minute Workout, your abdominals get a great workout.

Can I get you 6 pack abs, ripped, chiseled or a beach body. No, I cannot and I am not here to give you wasted information.

What I have for you sound, safe, and scientifically researched information/training methodologies that I do with my clients and myself.

Enjoy Fitness Fridays,

Yours In Great Health,

Dr Joe

Ps-Remember when someone puts together a nutrition program or supplement program for you make sure they have your blood tested under a microscope.

PPS-Kindly check out the new store, my web designer Ian, has done a fantastic job http://www.FireYourDiet.com/store