Ab machines are hot pieces of exercise equipment. With nearly everyone who is interested in their appearance is on the quest for a flat abdomen. This makes the market for ab workout machine equipment wide open for products. But, just what is the best ab workout machine, not the most popular but the best in terms of results.

The following machines have shown definite results and should be considered when looking into abdominal fitness equipment.

Swiss Balls

The first one on the list isn’t actually a machine; it is a stability ball, now known as a Swiss ball. Not only are they much less expensive than bulky machines, they also provide an excellent workout for the core muscles.

Using the Swiss ball when doing crunches, leg lifts, back arches and a host of other exercises increases the body’s strength, endurance and overall fitness. The abdominal muscles receive a workout and calories are burned in the process.

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Ab workout machines targeted for home use are typically designed to eliminate strain on the neck and back while the user is doing crunches. Some of the best rated machines, as reviewed by fitness experts, are described below. However, it still needs to be reiterated that nothing replaces a combination of diet and exercise, although these machines can be very helpful.

Ab Works by Nordic Track

One of the most highly recommended ab workout machines is Ab Works by Nordic Track. This machine is more costly than some of the other models but out ranks the other models in terms of results.

Ab Works offers variable resistance for increasing the workout according to fitness level. It also has leg resistance and full back support. It comes with a video and booklet containing 15 exercises and works for all skill levels.

Assembly is simple and the machine comes with excellent instructions for putting it together. The only down side noted is the price, however, some things are worth paying a little more for than others.

This machine requires some conditioning and learning to perfect the exercises. On the other hand, it is the most comfortable of the home ab machines and offers the best back support.

BodyShaping Ab Blaster Plus

Another ab workout machine that is recommended by the fitness reviewers is the BodyShaping Ab Blaster Plus.  This machine comes from the BodyShaping fitness program that airs on ESPN. The machine is easy to assemble and can be folded for storage when not in use. It comes with a video but no booklet. The headrest rotates for support regardless of movement, overall comfort is rated good.

The reviewers gave the Ab Blaster Plus a recommended rating with the only noted downside being that the feet of the machine are slippery, a minor detail overcome by placing traction pads beneath the foot stands.

These reviews clearly show that the Swiss ball is the best abdominal exercise machine for the home. It is inexpensive, works a range of muscles and provides excellent abdominal results. Of course, no matter what ab workout machine is picked for the home none of them will yield results unless they are put to use and you follow an overall health and fitness routine.

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The Swiss ball can be found in practically every gym or fitness center. These giant beach ball looking objects have been part of the professional fitness scene for many years, only they were known as stabilizer balls. A Swiss ball exercise workout is simple, but very effective if done correctly.

In recent years they have become the rage as both fitness buffs and beginners have taken to using them for core strengthening.

To make the most of the Swiss ball, you must know how to use it properly and how often to use it.

The following Swiss ball exercises are designed to get the most out of a routine. As with any fitness routine, consult with a professional before starting and make sure to warm up before beginning the routine.

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Swiss Ball Exercise 1 – Shoulder Rolls

Position the Swiss ball so that it is underneath the shoulders. Roll from left to right approximately six to eight inches. Repeat this ten times, working up to doing two sets of ten.

Swiss Ball Exercise 2 – Back Arches

Position the ball in the middle of the back so that you are lying on the ball. Use the feet to stabilize yourself.  With your arms at your sides, reach backwards and touch the ground. Hold this position for around ten seconds then slowly return to center position. Repeat five times.

Swiss Ball Exercise 3- Leg Extenders

Again position the ball in the middle of the back with feet flat on the floor in front of you. Extend the right leg straight out and hold for five seconds, pull the abdominal muscles tightly in as you hold the position. Repeat with the left leg. Do ten reps on each leg and two sets.

Swiss Ball Exercise 4 - Back Arches

Lie across the ball with your stomach in the center, face down, with your hands touching the ground. Lift the shoulders only, arching the back as high as possible and holding for five to seven seconds. Do this ten times and work up to doing two sets.

Swiss Ball Exercise 5 – Sit-Backs

This may be a little more challenging at first but it will become easier. Sit on the Swiss ball and lift your feet off the ground. Use your arms for balance and lean backwards. At first you may not be able to lean very far, that is okay. Hold the position for five seconds and repeat five times.

Swiss Ball Exercise 6 – Lean Forwards

Lie on the Swiss ball, positioning it underneath the stomach. Lean forward and lift your legs as high as possible off the ground. You can lower your head and use your arms to keep your balance. Repeat five times.

These are just a few of the exercises that can be performed with Swiss ball. Fitness routines that regularly incorporate the use of the Swiss ball will see an increase in core strength, overall endurance, balance, and even weight loss. The abdominal muscles will be fit and taut just like they should be.
 

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The core can be exercised using the Swiss ball very effectively.  The core is the stabilizing force for the body; it supports the body and needs proper exercise for strength and endurance. There are many exercises that can be used to strengthen the core, but this simple and effective 15 minute core ball exercise workout performed 3-4 times a week will work wonders.

Note: Before starting any exercise program consult a professional and be sure to warm up before you begin.

Core Ball Exercise Workout #1 : Swiss Ball Roll Out

The Swiss ball roll out is an excellent exercise for developing torso strength and pelvic control without putting the spine in a position that could cause pain or injury. To start out with the elbows bent and forearms resting on the ball. Roll the body out and extend both your arms and legs while keeping the spine aligned. Only roll out as far as you can without losing the alignment of the spine. Read the rest of this entry