Exercise Equipment That Flattens the Stomach

Exercise Equipment That Flattens the Stomach
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When dieters partake in a weight-loss regimen, the belly is one of the top areas where they wish to lose fat. This has brought about several large pieces of ab equipment found in gyms, as well as smaller ab machines marketed for home use. If you wish to flatten your stomach, it is crucial you work all of you major ab muscles and engage in cardio exercises.

Ab Wheel

The Ab Wheel is one of the smallest, most portable pieces of abdominal equipment on the market. It is simply a wheel with two handlebars jutting out on each side. To use, find a solid surface, get on your knees and hold the Ab Wheel in front of you until your arms are straight. Push outward as far as you comfortably can, then pull in and repeat for the prescribed number of reps.

Bosu Ball

A bosu ball creates an unstable platform that gives your abdominals an intense workout. The word "bosu" stands for "both sides up," meaning you can utilize both sides of the ball for exercise. The ball has been cut in half and attached to a platform, allowing you to perform a variety of movements. Your abdominals are strengthened when you execute moves such as squatting, twisting, bouncing and jumping on the bosu ball.

Roman Chair

This is one of the larger machines, often a staple at most gyms and fitness facilities. To use, step up into the chair, place your back against the padded backrest, place your forearms on the arm rests, hold both hands and allow your legs to hang underneath you. You can work your lower abs and obliques by drawing your knees toward your chest, then dropping them. Repeat this exercise for the prescribed number of reps.

Cardio Equipment

A flat stomach demands the use of cardio if you have extra fat covering up those muscles. Most aerobic exercise that elevates your heart rate such as running, walking, jumping rope and dancing can help you burn fat. However, some machines utilize your core muscles while burning fat simultaneously. Elliptical trainers, stair climbers, rowing machines, upright bicycles and cross country ski machines are found in most gyms, and can help you build muscle while shedding fat.

References

Article reviewed by Jen Raskin Last updated on: Jun 27, 2011

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