Over the years I have let myself go. By that I mean I stopped exercising and let myself gain weight. I went to my doctor and he said, “An effective abdominal workout would be wonderful for you!” I did not share in his delightful attitude. I was ready for a change, but did not want to work, especially on my abs.
Of course, he had to give me all the technical details. I am a simple woman and cannot decipher all that mumbo jumbo about lower ab workouts. I asked him to tell me in layman terms why, exactly, people should work their ab muscles. What is the use? Since I am lazy about exercising, I was hoping he would tell me it was only about aesthetics.
Apparently, the abdomen muscles are in triplicate. This means there are three parts. The first he explained are the Rectus Abdominis. When I tried to pronounce these words, I got completely tongue tied. Thankfully his description was easier. These are the ab muscles most people treasure. People work hard to display them to the world.
Next on the list: Transversus Abdominis. I feel like I am taking a class in a foreign language. Terry told me this is probably normal for most people. I asked him why. He stated this muscle is not known by too many people. Because it is not seen on the surface, it is not thought of. This muscle help when you must exhale explosively. I think I am learning something here.
Finally: Rectus Abdominis. This muscle is what most people call “abs.” The first words out of my mouth were, “rectal abs” when Terry told me their official name. These are those beautiful abdominal muscles men love to show. Of course, I notice them. Who does not? We women do, so much, adore those wonderful toned stomachs!
Obliques. These muscles help with side movements and stabilizing posture. The obliques help with rotation. It is imperative that these are exercised to keep them strengthened. You can find many different types of exercises that will help you accomplish this feat.
I did not imagine that the tissue lying over my stomach was so vital to my well being. I am enthusiastic about exercise now. I am not worried about the “beauty” part of abs, but I am concerned about how these affect my daily life. How will this change my way of life in later years? I want to be able to care for myself when I reach my golden years. I had better take care of them now.
You can search the Internet for abs workouts. There are many resources on the types of exercises you can do to make your stomach area stronger. You can hire a personal trainer for your abdominal workouts.
