Its Not Just About Having Abs
Working on your abdominal muscles is not always about developing a six-pack. Sure, it would be great to have one: six packs are still regarded as one of the hallmarks of masculine beauty. However, not everyone who works on their abdomen is caught up in a vain pursuit of aesthetic appeal. As a “gym bro” once said, "Anyone who thinks having a six-pack is just about looking good does not have one.”
So, Why Ab Machines?
Targeting the abdominal muscles during exercise mainly improves body posture and builds core strength for resistance and resilience in other related athletic activities. It is for these reasons that ab machines are the go-to equipment for millions of people worldwide.
Lets discuss ab machines, specifically the different types of ab machines that are widely used in the world of fitness and exercise today, why they are so popular, and what makes them so incredibly effective. Read till the end for some recommendations of affordable and high-quality ab machines to launch your journey to better fitness and health.
What is an Ab Machine?
An ab machine, simply put, is a workout equipment that is specifically designed to accommodate and enhance exercises that target the abdomen. Ab machines provide the ideal surface, support, and structure for users to perform various core exercises with proper form and often provide the resistance or support needed to enhance the effectiveness of the workout. Ab machines can be found in gyms or purchased for home use. They come in various types, each with its unique design and functionality to target different parts of the abs.
Types of Ab Machines
1. AB ROLLERS/WHEELS
An ab roller or Ab Wheel comprises a small wheel fitted with handles on each side. Users kneel on the ground, hold the handles, and roll the wheel forward while extending their bodies. The core muscles are fully engaged as the user controls the movement and returns to the starting position repeatedly.
Primary Benefits of Ab Rollers
- An ab roller targets the entire core, including the rectus abdominis, obliques, and lower back. It also improves stability and balance.
- An ab roller is small and lightweight, making it easy to store and transport. You can use it at home, in the gym, or even on trips.
- The simple design of an ab roller makes it accessible for all, irrespective of experience. Beginners and advanced users alike can operate it efficiently.
- An ab roller is relatively inexpensive compared to many other fitness machines, making it a cost-effective addition to your fitness equipment.
When performed with proper form, ab roller exercises can be low-impact, reducing the risk of strain or injury to the joints compared to some other high-impact core exercises.
2. AB BENCHES
An ab bench is a specially designed workout bench that can be raised or lowered to adjust for incline and resistance and allow the user to perform various exercises that strengthen their core. The user lies on the bench and performs various exercises, such as crunches, sit-ups, and leg raise. Adjusting the incline increases or decreases the difficulty.
Main Benefits of Ab Benches
- The main benefit of using an ab bench is that it allows for a range of core exercises and can target different abs areas by changing angles and resistance.
- An ab bench is instrumental in developing a stronger core, which enhances performance in various sports and physical activities by improving power generation, agility, and endurance.
- Using an ab bench can reduce the risk of sports-related injuries by strengthening the core and supporting proper body mechanics.
3. SIT-UP BENCHES
A sit-up bench is padded, often with foot rollers to secure the feet. It is perfect for leg lifts and sit-ups, which strengthen the core. The sit-up bench is strategically designed to work against gravity, forcing the body to use up more energy than it would ordinarily in a lying position. Users lie on the bench with their feet secured and perform sit-ups or crunches. The bench can often be set to different inclines.
Main Benefits of Sit-Up Benches
- Focuses on the upper and middle abs. The incline adds resistance, increasing the intensity of the workout.
- Sit-up benches are compact and suitable for home use. They allow users to perform effective core exercises without needing extensive space or additional equipment.
- Using a sit-up bench can provide a quick and efficient workout that targets multiple muscle groups in a single session.
- Gradual Intensity Increase: The user can adjust the incline or add resistance to progressively challenge their abdominal muscles as strength improves.
Beginners can start with fewer inclines and repetitions, gradually increasing intensity as they become more comfortable with the exercises.
4. AB COASTERS
The “coaster” in an “ab coaster machine” refers to a padded seat that glides up and down the curved track. Users kneel on the pad, grip the top of the machine, and pull their knees up toward their chest along the track. Different grips and body positions can target various parts of the abs.
Main Benefits of Ab Coasters
- Engages the core, especially the lower abs, and the movement can be controlled and adjusted for different fitness levels.
- Working with an ab coaster, which engages multiple core muscles, can help increase overall caloric expenditure, contributing to fat loss and muscle definition. The quick results obtained can also be crucial to keeping spirits up and boosting motivation.
- The ab coaster allows various exercises, including forward lifts and side twists, to target different core parts. A more comprehensive workout targets more muscles and generates quicker results.
- Many ab coasters allow users to progressively add weights, increasing the intensity of their workouts over time and ensuring continuous growth.
- The ab coaster's design supports the upper body, reducing strain on the neck and back that can occur with traditional ab exercises like crunches or sit-ups.
SOME AFFORDABLE OPTIONS TO TRY
THE ZELUS AB COASTER MACHINE
The Zelus Ab Coaster Machine is the perfect workout equipment for optimal core strength training. It helps sculpt your lower abs, upper abs, and side obliques while limiting stress to your neck, back, and shoulders.
With a foam padded knee pad and extra-long curved rails, the incline locks at 4 levels to offer everything from gentle toning to hardcore HIIT. These features allow the Zelus Ab Coaster to effect more targeted and effective workouts than other exercise equipment. Coast your way to defined abs and flatter your stomach with Zelus's home gym waist toner.
STRENGTH TOWER MULTI-PURPOSE PULL-UP SQUAT STATION INCLUDES DEADLIFT BENCH
Zelus’ specially designed strength tower not only includes an ab bench, but also other equipment that will specifically target your abs, triceps, upper back, chest, traps, shoulders, and more. The compact design and fold-up workout bench are designed to save room in small spaces, and by simply twisting the built-in knob, the chin-up station can be augmented to accommodate users of various heights by adjusting the bar height from 77.2” to 89.1”. Even with product dimensions of 39.2”L x 26.3”W x 77.2” - 89.1” (adjustable height), the detachable sit-up plate still folds up for space-saving convenience.
Order today, knowing that your purchase is guaranteed by a two-year warranty on the structural frame and a one-year warranty for the other parts and components (i.e. cushion). You will also get the chance to enjoy Zelus’ unrivaled product quality and their famed customer service!