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The Best Ab Workouts for Athletes

March 20, 2023 3 min read

The Best Ab Workouts for Athletes

Exercises that target the abdominal muscles are among the most popular forms of physical activity. The abdominals, or “abs,” are a major muscle group in the body and are important for maintaining posture and core stability. Ab workouts can help improve athletic performance, reduce injury risk, and even improve overall health.

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Athletes of all levels must focus on core strength if they want to stay at the top of their game. Core strength training is essential for athletes because it helps them remain strong and agile while competing. The best ab workouts for athletes will help them develop strength and stability, improve balance, and prevent injury.

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Why Develop Your Abs?

Strong abs are a crucial component of any athlete’s regimen. Abdominal muscles are responsible for stabilizing the spine, hips, and shoulders. Strengthening the abs can help athletes increase power and explosiveness, maintain proper form during exercises, and prevent injuries.

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Stronger abs can also lead to better body control and improved overall balance. This is especially true for athletes who compete in sports that require agility and quick reflexes, such as basketball and soccer. Additionally, stronger abs can help athletes generate more power when running, jumping, and throwing.

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The Best Ab Workouts for Athletes

The following exercises are some of the best ab workouts for athletes. These exercises are designed to target the core muscles and give athletes the strength and stability they need to excel in their sport.

1. Plank

The plank is a classic core-strengthening exercise that has been around for centuries. It is a simple move that requires no equipment, making it an ideal choice for athletes who want to train their abs without having to buy specialized equipment.

To perform a plank, start by lying face down on the ground. Place your forearms on the floor with your elbows bent and directly beneath your shoulders. Raise your body off the ground so that you are resting on your forearms and toes. Keep your spine straight and your head in line with your spine. Hold this position for as long as possible, aiming for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

2. Bicycle Crunches

Bicycle crunches are a great way to target the obliques and strengthen the side of the core. To do this move, start by lying flat on your back on the ground. Bring your knees up towards your chest and raise your feet off the ground. Place your hands behind your head, lightly supporting it. Now, bring your right knee towards your left elbow while keeping your left leg extended. Return to the starting position and repeat on the other side. Continue alternating sides for 10-12 repetitions.

3. Russian Twists

Russian twists are excellent for developing rotational core strength. To do this move, start by sitting on the ground with your knees bent and your feet flat on the ground. Lean back slightly and lift your feet a few inches off the ground. Place your hands together in front of your chest and twist your torso from side to side, tapping the ground next to each hip. Do 10-15 repetitions on each side.

4. Medicine Ball Slams

Medicine ball slams are a great way to build explosive power in the core. For this exercise, you will need a medicine ball. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding the medicine ball in both hands. Bend your knees slightly, then explosively extend your arms above your head and slam the medicine ball into the ground. Catch the medicine ball on the bounce and repeat for 10-15 repetitions.

5. Ab Wheel Rollouts

Ab wheel rollouts are one of the most challenging ab exercises but are excellent for developing core strength. To do this move, you will need an ab wheel. Start by kneeling on the ground with the ab wheel in front of you. Grasp the handles and roll the wheel forward until your arms are fully extended. Pause for a moment, then roll the wheel back to the starting position. Do 10-15 repetitions.

Ab workouts are an important part of any athlete’s fitness routine. Stronger abs can help athletes increase power and agility, improve balance and coordination, and reduce injury risk. The best ab workouts for athletes should focus on strengthening the core muscles and developing stability and power.

The above exercises are some of the best ab workouts for athletes. Incorporating these exercises into your fitness routine will help you develop a strong and stable core, giving you the edge you need to succeed in your sport.