What To Look For
An effective abs workout DVD will target all six abdominal muscles: transverse abdominal; internal oblique; external oblique and the rectus abdominal. Strengthening the six abdominal muscles, also known as the "core", creates a flat, toned stomach but also provides the crucial support to the spine. The transverse abdominal is the deepest muscles which affects your posture. The internal and external obliques located on the sides of your body helps with the flexibility of your spine. Lastly, the rectus abdominal is the most superficial abdominal muscles that create the six-pack definition.
Common Pitfalls
Many people believe defining your abs muscles requires sit-ups and crunches; however, there are a wide variety of exercises that are as efficient. Pilates and yoga DVDs are two gentle alternative forms of abs workouts. Both exercises focus on balance and stability that causes resistance and forces your abs to work harder. There are also DVDs that incorporate abs exercises that can be done standing up if you have issues with your knees or lower back. It is important to consider your body conditions before choosing the right DVD.
Where To Buy
Online shopping is an easy way to purchase abs DVDs. Sites like Amazon and eBay offer a wide range. Amazon also includes the benefits of reading customers' reviews and video clips for most DVDs. Fitness companies like The Firm, Gaim and The 10-Minute Solution offer items directly from their websites. Additionally, DVDs are also available online and at major department stores such as Target, Walmart and Best Buy.
Cost
The cost of abs DVDs vary greatly depending on the length of the workout to the trainer. As of 2010, new DVDs can cost as little as $8 and as much as $35 for a box-set series. Purchasing used DVDs from eBay and Amazon can be significantly less expensive.
Comparison Shopping
The 10-Minute Solutions DVD series like "Quick Tummy Toner" and "Blast Off Belly Flat" offer a variety of quick, compact workouts, including traditional floor exercises and stand-up segments. "Billy's Abs Bootcamp" from the Billy Banks' Tae-Bo series is a 30-minute DVD that works out your entire core by keeping your abs contracted through various squats, torso twists and pelvic thrusts. Gaim produces a series with Pilates instructor Ana Caban. "Beginning Pilates Mat Workout" offers simple positions with extensive instructions for beginners and "Intermediate Pilates Mat Workout" for advance students interested in challenging poses.
Accessories
In most cases, except for standing-up abs DVDs, trainers suggest using a yoga mat for comfort. Other abs DVDs may also require hand-held weights, kettle bells or a stability ball. Weights are typically used to add resistance and increase your ab muscles. Stability balls are an excellent addition if you have problems with your lower back.
Insider Tips
According to Women Fitness, abs exercises can only tone and define your abs; however, you first must get rid of the layer of fat sitting on top of your abs muscles. Any 30-minute aerobic workouts like jogging or swimming, three to four times a week will shed the fat. Also, it is important to change your workout routine every few weeks to keep your body challenged. Many abs DVDs will include a variety of fitness models who demonstrate beginner, intermediate and advance poses for each workout.
References
- Fitness: Best Workout DVDs
- Women Fitness: Top 10 Truth About Flat Abs
- "A Guide to Dissection of the Human Body"; F. Peter Lisowski; 2004
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