Popular Ab Exercisers

Basic features and how to choose

We've all seen the infomercials, heard the sales pitches, and read the brochures.  For those of us looking to tone our abs (and who isn't?), the promises made by some popular exercise machines can seem awfully tempting.  And the truth is that many of these products can work for you.  But with so many different ab exercisers on the market, how do you know which one to choose?

Here, we'll outline some basic information on a few of the most popular ab exercisers. 

Ab Roller

This is the original ab exercise machine, featuring two curved bars.  One fits behind your neck while the other forms a handle in front of your face.  The Ab Roller is designed to make sit-ups and crunches easier by supporting your upper body as you complete the motions.

The main benefit of the Ab Roller is the fact that it forces you to achieve proper alignment during your exercises.  If you're doing sit-ups without a machine, it can be very easy to stretch your neck in the wrong direction.  This can negate your results and even lead to injury.  Using the Ab Roller keeps your arms, neck, shoulders, and elbows where they need to be in order to work both upper and lower abdominal muscles.

Please note that the Ab Roller doesn't necessarily make your exercises easier.  It simply helps make sure you're doing them correctly.

Ab Lounge XL

Shaped somewhat like a camping chair, the Ab Lounge XL is designed to make abdominal exercises easier by raising you up off the floor.  The fact that this exerciser has a back rest makes it ideal for those with weak necks or back problems.  Adjustable foot rests and padded iso-grips make it fairly comfortable for long periods of time.

The Ab Lounge XL is also available in a Professional Package, which comes complete with a fitness computer and other extras.

Ab Lounge 2

There are a few subtle differences between the Ab Lounge XL and the Ab Lounge 2.  The main point of comparison is the size of the exerciser- the XL is larger and supports up to 275 pounds of weight, while the Ab Lounge 2 is a bit smaller in size and only supports 250 pounds.  The Ab Lounge 2 features the same chair-like back support and positioning, but does not offer the adjustable foot rests. 

If your needs are fairly basic, the Ab Lounge 2 should be more than adequate.  Unless you have special size requirements, or you're interested in the Professional Package offered with the Ab Lounge XL, the Ab Lounge 2 is just as sensible of an investment.

What ab exerciser do I need?

While we've only outlined a few products above, you'll find that many ab exercisers on the market fall under these general design categories. 

Keep in mind any special requirements you may have.  If you're shorter or taller than average, you may need an adjustable machine that can accommodate your height.  If you're interested in a variety of exercises, make sure to choose one that can do beyond the basic sit-up.  If you love sit-ups and crunches but just want to be more efficient in how you do them, then a general rolling machine should suit you just fine.

Safety first

Whatever type of ab exerciser you choose, it's imperative to read and follow directions carefully.  Even with a well-designed machine, the wrong moves can injure your muscles-not to mention keep you from seeing results!

More information on ab machines