Those dreadful crunches, do they really work? Sure, if you mix up your routine with a variety of exercises. Traditional ab exercises like sit-ups and crunches are very good for your abs, but the core muscles are like any other muscle that needs variation in order to develop well. Remember these cardinal rules for getting a hardcore belly:
Crunchless Rule 1
Add core exercises that take a different approach to your everyday regimen. Choose the approach of a total body exercise. For example, the mountain climber is a great abdominal exercise that will work the core, upper body and back. Try to circuit this exercise with a standing exercise such as a medicine ball twist. It is a great balance that includes forward flexion that is counteracted by extension.
Crunchless Rule 2
Chin-ups and pull-ups are also fantastic for carving out the core without crunching. These exercises focus not only on the core muscles but also the Lattisimus Dorsi, the large muscle that wraps around the ribs to meet the obliques. This is the muscle that gives you the nice V-shape in the back. Women, if a pull-up or chin-up is not in your regimen, try the gravitron at your local gym. This is a great machine that assists when performing a pull-up.
Crunchless Rule 3
Try a kettlebell class or cardio ball class that will add a little weight and motion to cut up the core. This serves two purposes in one exercise, and includes a cardio workout focusing on the core. Cardio ball and kettlebells are lightweight objects used in group fitness classes or in one-on-one sessions with a private trainer.
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