The Top 5 Ab Machines

Ab machines are assistive devices designed to target and tone your abdominal muscles. Your abdominal muscles are comprised of several different muscles that protect the abdominals: the upper portion, or rectus abdominis; the lower portion, or rectus abdominis; and the external oblique muscles, that make up the side stomach muscles. While you do not always need an abdominal exercise machine in order to experience abdominal strengthening, the machines can provide muscle targeting.

Ab Scissor

A 2005 study published in the "Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research" tested the efficacy of abdominal training devices in targeting the upper, lower and oblique muscles. One of the highest-ranking machines was the Ab Scissor, a machine where you sit in an upright position. You grip the arm handles over the machine and a moving platform at the feet allows you to target the front and sides of the stomach. The Ab Scissor was shown to be slightly more effective than the standard crunch in training the external oblique muscles.

Ab Swing

The "Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research" study found the Ab Swing to be most effective after the Ab Scissors. The machine is designed to provide six targeted workouts in one: a cable side bend, lower abdominal machine, abdominal crunch machine, hanging leg raise, Roman chair and twisting oblique machine, according to the As Seen on TV website that sells the Ab Swing product. The Ab Swing was shown to be most effective in training the external obliques.

6 Second Abs

The 6 Second Abs machine is designed to assist you in performing the most effective stomach crunch, according to Exercise Equipment Expert, a site where certified personal trainers review exercise equipment. The machine can act similarly to a resistance band that increases the tension associated with performing a crunch.

Ab Slide

The Ab Slide machine was rated "Best Ab Machine Under $25" on Trainers Secrets, a site where certified personal trainers review exercise equipment. The Ab Slide is a small device that features four rollers and has handles that you hold on to as you slide to the front and sides. Although Exercise Equipment Expert rated the Ab Slide as slightly difficult to learn how to use, Trainers Secrets touted its effectiveness and ability to target the abdominals from all sides.

Torso Track II

The Torso Track II was rated "Best Ab Machine Over $25" on Trainers Secrets. The Torso Track II is a modified platform that features handles on either side that allow you to move forward and isolate the stomach muscles. The Trainers Secret website highlights the adjustable resistance and ease of use as reasons it is considered one of the best machines.