Don't Train Your Abs Like This, Train Them Like This!

I've seen countless people struggle with ineffective ab workouts that not only fail to deliver results but can potentially cause harm. Today, I want to share some game-changing insights on core training that will transform the way you approach your ab exercises.

Let's start by addressing a common misconception. Many people believe that the key to a strong core is endless crunches and sit-ups. However, as Coach Tyler from We Shape points out, "flexing and extending the spine over and over again like this so you can work this one little layer of abdominal muscles is not going to do anything but probably cause you some back pain in the long run."

So, what's the right way to train your abs? It's all about understanding the true function of your core muscles. As Coach Tyler explains, "our core muscles were designed to prevent us from moving in ranges of motion that we weren't supposed to move." This means that instead of constantly bending and twisting, we should focus on maintaining stability while the rest of our body moves.

With this principle in mind, I want to introduce you to three simple yet effective exercises that will revolutionize your core workout routine. These moves progress from beginner to advanced, allowing you to build strength, coordination, and balance across your entire body.

Let's start with the first exercise: the high chair shoulder tap. This move is excellent for beginners as it teaches you to maintain a stable core while moving your limbs. Coach Tyler describes the proper form: "Start by putting your hands on a nice sturdy surface that's about waist height... Come into a plank position... drop the hips squeeze the glutes and squeeze the core and then press your hands into the surface."

As you perform the shoulder taps, focus on keeping your body still from "the hips all the way up to the shoulders." If you find this challenging, Coach Tyler suggests widening your stance or bringing your hands closer together. Aim to perform this exercise for 60 seconds with good form before progressing to the next variation.

The second exercise is the low chair shoulder tap. This move increases the difficulty by lowering the surface height. An important tip from Coach Tyler: "If that's you make sure you turn your fingers to the outside and grab the outside of the chair" to reduce wrist strain. Remember to maintain that strong plank position, "squeezing the glutes squeezing the core and finding your balance" as you perform the shoulder taps.

Finally, we have the most advanced variation: the floor shoulder tap. This exercise is described as "a very Advanced core exercise" due to the increased challenge of maintaining stability. Coach Tyler advises starting with your hands close together and feet wide apart, then gradually increasing the distance between your hands and narrowing your stance as you improve.

The beauty of these exercises lies in their progression. As Coach Tyler notes, "you can play with this movement for a very long time and it's going to serve you very well in strengthening your core giving you more core coordination protecting your lower back."

By incorporating these functional core exercises into your routine, you'll be training your abs the way they were meant to work. Remember, it's not about how many crunches you can do, but how well you can maintain stability and control throughout your daily activities and other workouts.

In conclusion

Let's move away from "archaic" ab training methods and embrace a more functional approach to core strength. Your body will thank you, and you'll likely see improvements not just in your ab definition, but in your overall strength, posture, and athletic performance. So why not give these exercises a try and experience the difference for yourself?