Ab Attack

Part of being a well-rounded human being is being in good shape right?  Healthy body = healthy mind?

Easy to acknowledge, less easy to find time for.  Thats why I'm always on the lookout for exercise routines that can fit in with a hectic lifestyle.

Before continuing, its important to note that a healthy alkaline diet and a cardio fitness base (swim / run / bike) are most important.  Following these, a few strategic strength based exercises can really extend your fitness.   Legs (squats) and arms (push / pullups) are common choices, however I personally prefer to focus on having a strong core. This has so many crossover benefits, from running / swimming to climbing / boxing.   The best bit is that - given that muscle burns fat - you are burning off that beer belly whilst simply sitting at your desk!

So whats the best way to improve your core?  You can breathe a sigh of relief, it most certainly is NOT doing situps!  The conventional situp is - well, pretty useless actually.  It only exercises about 2 of your core muscles, and will never give you a 6 (or 8!) pack.

There are plenty of options for working an ab session into your week, such as getting a personal trainer or joining a group session at the gym.  However, these a) cost money, and b) may not fit into your schedule.

Instead, my recommendation is the 8 min abs routine from passion4profession.

I'd start with Level 1 - this will give you an idea of your current fitness level.  You might want to stick at this level for a couple of weeks if you have not done abs workouts before.  Don't ever train more than 2 or 3 times per week - remember you only get stronger when you REST as that is when your muscles recover and rebuild themselves.

Level 2 picks things up a bit - again I'd spend a week or 2 (even 3 weeks) on this before moving up.  Make the most of Level 2.  You will yearn for Level 2 when you start to integrate Level 3 into your life.

Okay, this is where things start to get serious.  Level 3 is a significant step up from Level 2.  You might need to remove your shoes (and socks!) before attempting this level.  If you fail the first time - do not be disheartened!  I think it took me about 4 or 5 attempts before completing the whole thing.  If you do it in less attempts than this, I hold my hat off to you.  This video is NAILS!!  Which I guess is why it is so awesome.  Remember - once you have completed this - it is important to keep it up, believe me it does get easier.  After a while you can even try using ankle weights..

So anyway, hope you have enjoyed the blog, and hopefully you will at least try Level 1.  Do let me know how you get on!!