The Ab Circle Pro is an abdominal exerciser sold through As Seen on TV websites. Instead of doing crunches, you are instructed to position yourself over a circular steel base. While kneeling on the pads, you move your body side to side and front to back to target different areas of the core. Although the Ab Circle Pro promises amazing results, you can achieve the same effect through traditional ab exercises.
Significance
You cannot spot reduce fat, and using the Ab Circle Pro will not help with weight loss. It can marginally work the muscles in the core to help strengthen and tone the abs. According to Consumer Reports, when you use the Ab Circle Pro you burn about the same calories as brisk walking. If you want to lose weight, you need to add more cardio activity to your day-to-day routine. Participate in activities such as jogging, swimming, step aerobics and cycling.
Expert Insight
During a December 2010 study found in the "Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research," the Ab Circle did not outperform traditional abdominal exercises. The Ab Circle was tested against three exercises in the study -- the crunch, side bridge and quadrupet. Electromyography technology was used to measure the effectiveness of the Ab Circle versus these exercises. The front, back and lateral core muscles were found to be activated at the same or greater levels with the traditional ab exercises.
Solutions
A nutrition plan is included with your purchase of the Ab Circle Pro. The weight loss promised by the product is likely to occur from following this calorie-restricted diet rather than using the Ab Circle Pro. If you want to lose weight and keep it off, you should instead gradually reduce your calories and replace high-calorie foods with plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, low-fat dairy products and whole grains.
Considerations
Be wary of infomercial products that make outrageous claims. The makers of the Ab Circle Pro entice buyers by stating you need to only work the abs for three minutes a day and that you'll have flat abs in a matter of weeks. Instead, save the couple of hundred dollars that the product costs and work your abs at home.
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