Ab workout without the major equipment
I am working to build my ab and chest muscles doing regular home exercises, but from sit-ups and crunches I only work the upper abs. Any ideas for the lower abs that doesn't require expensive equipment or access to a gym?
Answer:If you can find somewhere with those good old iron walk bars, like a handicapped ramp at 5 am or something, you can do reverse crunches while you hold yourself up. Yes, you feel the burn! Adding ankle weights to the leg lifts can add some resistance too, or perhaps check resistance bands, they are fairly cheap and you can do a lot with them.
leg raises will work your lowers. also side bends to get your obliques, or love handles.
push ups for chest also, and do inverted to work the top of your chest.
actually, check out he book "weight training for dummies" - they give some ideas (i seem to recall reverse crunches) though they do clarify that it's all one muscle - no such thing as "upper" and "lower" abs.
also, be aware that you wont lose belly fat by doing ab exercises, regardless of what the informercial say or imply. you must lose overall body fat to lose fat in the gut, unfortunately. and if you're a guy? that will be the last place you'll lose weight :(
**Leg lifts (Lay on your back and raise your legs straight up and down - dont let your feet hit the ground as you lower them)
**Sit down with your knees tucked towards your stomach. Extend your legs straight and bring them back into the tucked position
DO 1000 SIT-UPS A DAY
500 IN THE MORNING
AND 500 BEFORE BED.
ALSO DO CRUNCHES 1000 TOO.