Here, our experts help separate ab facts from fiction.
mythStrength-training exercises like crunches will get rid of abdominal fat.
truthSpot training (or reducing) isn’t possible.
While crunches are important for firming and strengthening the abdominals, they won’t remove fat from that area.
mythSit-ups aren’t safe or effective for training your abs.
So why the bad rap?
“But really, sit-ups can be done by the majority of the population.”
If your neck aches, lightly cup one hand behind it for support.
mythIf you want to get firmer, more tones abs you oughta do ab exercises every day.
Train your abs no more than four days a week on nonconsecutive days.
mythYou should train your abs at the end of your workout.
mythBecause the abs are endurance muscles, you have to do hundreds of reps to get results.
If you’re using correct form (see “Ready, Set, Crunch!”
“Quality is more important than quantity,” Brungardt adds.
