If you believe infomercials, you can get six-pack abs by using abdominal exercisers regularly. Although ab machines can tone the tummy, you need to make time for cardio exercise and diet as well to decrease fat. Review studies on abdominal machines to find the best type to add to your workout. In some cases, ab workout machines are as effective as traditional mat exercises, like crunches.
Torso Track
During a 2001 study commissioned by the American Council on Exercise and performed at the San Diego State University Biomechanics Lab, the Torso Track worked the abdominal muscles better than traditional crunches. To use the Torso Track, you kneel in front of the machine and roll your body forward as you grip the handles. Contract your abs to return to the starting position.
Ab Coaster
A panel assembled by Consumer Reports found the Ab Coaster to work the abdominal muscles and obliques when operated correctly. The Ab Coaster requires you to kneel on the machine and use your arms to pull forward. As you pull your body forward, the ab muscles contract. You may rotate the seat to target different muscles in your stomach.
Ab Roller
The Ab Roller engages the rectus abdominus muscles and obliques slightly more than crunches alone, according to the American Council on Exercise study. The Ab Roller's design is intended to support your body as you perform sit-ups, push-ups and dips. To increase resistance, weights can be added to the base of the machine. When you order the machine, it comes with an instructional DVD that walks you through each exercise you can do.
Considerations
In some cases, abdominal exercisers work the abs less effectively than floor exercises. For instance, a Consumer Reports testing panel found the Ab Rocket engaged the muscles in the stomach less than sit-ups. During the American Council on Exercise-commissioned study, the Ab Rocker was found to be 80 percent less effective than a traditional abdominal crunch.
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