Tip: Badass abs are built by squats

One of the greatest misconceptions in the exercise world is that you need to do ab-specific exercises if you want to get great muscle-tone in your tummy. People spend ages at gym doing crunch upon crunch trying to get their abs to show.

And it works… up to a point. But remember, you want a six-pack, so how do you make sure you’re targeting all of your tummy muscles?

So what's wrong with this line of thought?

Well, first, let's look at the primary function of your abdominal muscles.

Hint: it's not to look good naked... it's to support your spine. Your abs are there to keep you upright when you walk and sit. Without them your spine would just flop about all over the place.

So how does one train the abs then?

Well, it makes sense that exercises in which you are required to stand upright under a load would be the best, since this is their primary function. This would also lead to good development in terms of their looks.

Sidenote: function definitely trumps form in the ab department. Having a strong spine into old age is pretty vital

The BEST exercise for this?

Any type of LOADED squat or carry. Whether you have a barbell on your back or a kettlebell in front of you, you need to be doing the squatting movement, not just for leg and overall strength, but for your abs too.

Watch the video below to learn how to do a safe, strength-building, ab-building squat:

Carries like farmer’s walks are also amazing ab builders for the same reason - the challenge to remain upright under a load is a great ab-builder.

Watch the video below to learn how to do farmer’s walks:

The second best exercises for abs would be static holds like planks, because your abs are still being used to hold your spine in alignment for long periods under duress.

Watch the video below to learn how to do planks that won’t hurt your back:

Add these to your workout and watch your tummy tighten up!

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