Is ab work (like crunches) necessary?

zombie_meg · July 2014

I'm doing the beginner's body weight circuit from Nerd Fitness. 20 squats, 10 push-ups, 20 walking lunges, 10 dumbbell rows, 15 second plank, and 30 jumping jacks. Right now I'm just going through it twice, three times a week. Should I be adding anything else to it or is this good for a beginner? It definitely challenges me but I didn't know if I should add some more ab stuff. TIA!

gypsy_spirit · July 2014

Follow the program. You are getting core work. I did this for 4 months before I began lifting. It was awesome!

ETA: The program has progressions. If you feel like you are not being challenged, move to 3 circuits and then step up to the next level. He explains how to do that on the website.

izu87 · July 2014

All of these exercises if done properly would include your stomach muscles as well. Especially the plank. If you worry it's not enough you can do it longer or repeat several times.

I'll recommend you http://www.fitnessblender.com/ - they've got some amazing workouts - all free, from total body to "zone" related. Though keep in mind you cannot target specific zones and expect to lose only there.

Also, just a side comment, if that's all you do without any reps - not quite sure how effective it will be. Build up your stamina, and in a week or so try to do two reps of the entire thing, then three, then four, until you can proceed to more serious workouts. Good luck!

lokepa · July 2014

*Edit ^ beat me to it* Planks and push ups are ab (or core) work... crunches are your choice... one thing I would humbly recommend... don't forget about your lower back... maybe throw in some supermans to balance the core