Ab machines or classes?

Wed., June 4, 2008

Andrea Renee Wyatt, M.s.s., C.s.c.s. King Features Syndicate

Q. My gym has a number of abdominal machines that members can use. The gym also offers 15-minute abdominal classes taught by a personal trainer and performed on floor mats. Which type of abdominal exercises work best — machines or floor exercises?

A. Choosing the right type of method to exercise a muscle group can be overwhelming at times. Machines, stability balls, medicine balls and floor exercises all present options for strengthening abdominal muscles. Choosing the better option means selecting the method that will be best for YOU!

The abdominal region is usually referred to as the core, although the core actually involves back and chest muscles as well. These other muscles also are involved in abdominal exercises. Remembering this can help you determine which type of exercise will help you achieve your goals.

Abdominal machines are usually designed to truly isolate the abdominal region and use a forward-bending motion with added weight to engage the muscles of the abdomen. Your arms and/or shoulders are used to achieve this motion, while your legs are either stationary or move with the motion of your upper body. These types of machines are best for people who may need the structure and security of using a machine that can control and isolate these muscles without risking injury to the lower back.

Many abdominal classes instructed by a personal trainer are a great way to work your “core” under the watchful eye of a professional. Abdominal classes typically focus on strengthening the whole core region through a series of exercises. These exercises use your arms and legs and involve stability and medicine balls, tubing or other exercise toys. They’re usually done on the floor, on a stability ball or standing. Most classes involve movement in different directions to promote stability throughout the core region. These classes can be useful for participants to teach them the proper form and technique necessary for safely completing abdominal exercises.

No matter which type of exercise you choose to strengthen your abdominals, remember to choose an option that will help improve the strength and function of your entire core region.

Always consult a physician before beginning an exercise program.

Andrea Renee Wyatt, M.S.S., C.S.C.S., is a personal trainer with an extensive background in strength and conditioning as well as therapeutic recreation. If you have a fitness or training question, write to Andrea in care of King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475,

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