Are you giving your abs the most effective possible workout?

One of the problems faced by dedicated trainers is that of staleness or boredom; particularly when, as is inevitable, progress sometimes seems to hit a plateau. But, this is not just a psychological issue, because the muscles can actually get used to a particular routine and cease to respond. The answer is to shock them into growth with something new and different – which is also more enjoyable. One great way of doing this is to use “complexes” – basically a sequence of movements performed seamlessly, without pause, as opposed to the repetition of a single movement such as a press or curl.

Complexes will work your whole body hard, and also get your heart and lungs going to the max – thereby providing both crucial elements of an effective abs workout. Complexes can be done with a conventional barbell, dumbbells or kettlebells.

A very common problem faced by people who work out regularly is that of hitting a plateau in their progress, a period when they seem to make no progress either in the amount of weight lifted, the number of reps they can do, or even in their physical appearance.

When this happens the best workout for abs – in fact the best workout, period – is one which shocks the muscles into growing again. And the best of these workouts are “complexes”, sequences of multi-joint exercises performed without pause; 3-5 sequences making up a set.

Complexes not only work every muscle hard, they also give the heart and lungs a real test, providing everything needed for a complete abs workout. Complexes can be performed with a barbell, dumbbells, kettlebells or as sequences of body weight exercises .

If you are really serious about losing a few pounds, why not give this easy 8 minute routine for an abs workout. You’ll be glad you did when summer comes and you can wear that bikini you’ve had your eyes on for so long.