If your ab workout is repeating sit-ups, sit-ups, sit-ups, it’s time to change your approach.
why? Not only is this repetitive approach mind-numbingly boring, it may not provide your abdominal muscles with the functional strength they need to serve their true purpose.
Last year, I replaced my regular sit-ups with the five kettlebell moves in the video below by certified personal trainer Deanna O’Donnell (@DeannaODFit), the results were impressive.
If you want to try it out for yourself, grab a kettlebell or two and get ready for a blissful core session without the crunches.
Watch Deanna O’Donnell’s Alternative Core Training
Benefits of this training
Instead of repeatedly bending your lower back during sit-ups and crunches, O’Donnell’s movement activates your core muscles to support your spine and resist the force of the kettlebell moving you off center.
Physical therapist and strength training expert Aaron Horsig praised this training method. his instagram page.
“Six-pack muscles work with other core muscles to protect your spine by limiting spinal movement when you lift. The spine is highly flexible and designed to move, but under load It’s not designed to move too much when it’s loaded.”
The goal is to keep your spine as stable as possible, which is where you need strong abdominal muscles. “If you want to see abs, a low body fat percentage is enough, but if you want to use those muscles for their intended purpose, stop doing sit-ups,” he says.
my thoughts on this training
(Image credit: Future / Harry Bullmore)
This workout won’t give you the desired “ab burn” that a bucketful of sit-ups inevitably brings. But that doesn’t mean it’s not effective. Instead, it offers a 360° approach and activates muscles that wrap throughout your midsection.
In particular, I felt my deep core muscles being stimulated during the march, and the half-kneeling rotation targeted my obliques. I also liked Gorilla Row’s ability to strengthen my back muscles.
By the end, my forehead prickled with sweat and every muscle in my body felt the dull ache of a comprehensive core workout.
(Image credit: Future / Harry Bullmore)
Strengthening my core muscles made all the difference. During his regular CrossFit sessions, he was able to lift heavier and move better. It also helps me avoid injuries and allows me to train more consistently.
These effects also affect your life outside the gym. Being injury-free makes everyday activities easier and more enjoyable. My recent move also feels easier due to improved stability and strength.
So if you want to spice up your workouts and build real-world strength, we highly recommend giving this core workout a try.
