5 simple exercises to tone abs

The abdominal area is probably the most stubborn area of the body to firm up.

Although we know it is important to strengthen these muscles, most people find that they lack consistency in training, either from lack of time or simply because they can’t stay motivated. Dan Nguyen is a certified trainer and fitness behavior expert who has created a program of eight exercises that can be performed in eight minutes to strengthen core muscles. Titled the Absin8 Fitness Program, these exercises work according to what he calls the ABCs of fitness: Activity, Behavior and Consistency.

Activity relates to the exercises selected, behavior refers to the mental focus behind the exercises and consistency means practicing these movements every day for the best results. “I wanted to create a fitness program to teach people exercises they can do anywhere, and add a mental component to help them create healthy habits, motivation and behaviors.”

A few of his exercises:

Standing Leg Lift: Warm up by raising your right thigh, then your left, so it is at a 90-degree angle. Now try again, but this time slow it down and consciously engage your abs. Do five repetitions on each side, holding each one, and you'll feel the burn.

Invisible Bar: Now that you are warmed up, stand with your hands at your sides and visualize you have a bar between them. Use your core muscles to push and pull from side to side, squeezing the muscles tightly each time for five reps.

Stand Tall & Turn: Stand with your hands behind your head. Turn slowly from side to side, until you feel your abs engage. Try to keep your hips straight and use your abs to turn in a controlled manner so you are not swinging. Do five reps side to side.

Standing Pull: The next exercise uses an elastic band that can be fixed to a door or other stationary object. To engage the upper abs, stand and hold the handles of the elastic bands, palms up and arms bent, and pull straight toward your stomach just above the navel. Do not allow the body to move forward. Do five reps.

The Lowdown: The last exercise also uses an elastic band, but this one is focused on the lower abs. Standing, hold the elastic bands, but with palms facing down and drop your arms down fully extended. Pull the bands toward you, once again engaging your abs, your core, and not allowing your body to sway forward.

Along with regular strengthening exercises, a healthy diet and cardiovascular activity is the best prescription for reducing body fat and keeping it off long term.

For more information and complete description of exercises, go online to www.dannguyeninc.com.

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