Rate my ab routine

misspenny762

Hi all!

Well I've always wanted a flat, toned stomach but due to a hip and back problem I've never really been able to work out my abs because I can't do situps and most other ab workouts cause me a lot of pain. Recently though I developed a routine which I can do fairly well but since I'm new to this whole thing I don't know how effective it is or how to maximize my workout. Right now I do:

Leg suspensions on the Captain's Chair (3 sets of 10-15 reps)
Standing Sidebends (50)
Bicycle Crunches (50-100)
3 days a week, after cardio.

What I want to know is:
How good is this routine in general?
What could I do to make it more effective?
How long should it take to see results?
What kind of results can I expect?

Thank you!

kmm7309

I find that those abs moves where you lay on the floor with your legs in the air and lift your butt up a few inches with your core *feel* more effective than any other ab exercise I can do except bicycle crunches. Maybe try some of those for your "transverse abs"? (lower, pouchy part of your stomach)

grouch201

Looks like a really good routine for the most part. You've got your upper and lower abs targeted as well as your obliques, so you're getting your entire core. You've also got the cardio which is the best for reducing whatever fat might be there, though it doesn't look like there's much on you judging from your picture. I'd say you've got something that looks pretty solid. I'd say it wouldn't take more than 30 days to see some really nice results.

OLP76

In order to get a flat tummy, you need to a good mealplan, followed by working out your 'whole core' area...You can't focus on one just area.

Ab Ripper (Power90 & P90X Series) has done wonders for me. I'm unsure if you can find examples on youtube.

rileysowner

I would add planks if you can do them. They are an excellent core exercise.

misspenny762

Thanks everyone! Planks are difficult for me but I think I'll add maybe just a little, like a ten-second plank before and after the routine, and see how I do with that.