1 – Balance Ball
The balance ball is a hugely versatile piece of equipment. Made of durable rubber it is an inflatable ball that can be used for a wide range of exercises to strengthen not just abdominal muscles, but almost any muscle group you can think of. It’s also a really easy piece of equipment to use, and you don’t have to spend a lot on a personal trainer to use it safely and successfully. The best way to learn how to use a balance ball effectively is to purchase a video so that you can see exactly how the different exercises should be done and build an effective workout routine.

2 – Kettlebells
Kettlebells are large cast iron weights about the size of a bowling ball, with a handle on the top. They range in weight from only 4 pounds to 175 pounds so there is a weight available for all strengths. Exercises using kettlebells use a swinging motion and increase strength and endurance particularly of core back and abdominal muscles, as well as working on upper leg and shoulder strength. Kettlebell exercises mimic whole-body manual work like digging which, as anyone who has spent a weekend gardening will know, can be very effective in exercising a wide range of muscle groups. If you are just starting or have shoulder or back problems you should use small weights and consider consuting an expert so you do not damage yourself.

3 – Ab Roller
One of the problems with traditional ab exercises such as crunches is that they can put strain on your shoulders and neck. People who have had injuries in these areas can find it difficult to effectively exercise abdominal muscles without pain and further damage. Ab rollers are metal frames which allow you to perform abdominal crunches whilst supporting your head and neck. Even if you don’t have an injury, using an ab roller can help you to maintain good form during crunches so that you exercise effectively without straining and injuring yourself.

Used as part of a balanced workout these pieces of equipment can help with core strength and tone. Nothing is achieved without hard work, and no equipment is going to have an instant effect without a carefully designed training program, a healthy diet and a bit of sweat. As always, people with pre-existing injuries or other health conditions should consult a professional before starting a new exercise program.

How does the Ab Glider work?
The Ab Glider is designed around two different motions to help strengthen core abdominal muscles. Both a circular type motion and the familiar crunch motion are used in combination. This is thought to provide a more even workout with more benefits than simply performing basic exercises. Increasing the number of muscle groups used in a workout will help you to obtain a well-balanced physique, improve your core strength and increase the calories you burn for the same length of workout. The machine comprises a steel frame and track with a kneeling platform which you slide up and down the track while holding handles at the top of the frame, utilising your abdominal muscles. The platform has two positions to allow you to work both vertically and laterally.

Does it work if I’m new to exercise?
Customer reviews have indicated considerable benefits of the Ab Glider equipment if you are new to abdominal exercises, as it means that you do not have to lie on the floor to perform endless abdominal crunches. These can be difficult or even impossible for people who have poor abdominal tone, so using an exercise aid such as the Ab Glider makes things easier to start with while your core strength improves.

What about more experienced exercisers?
The general consensus seems to be that the equipment can be a useful aid to maintaining your core abdominal muscle strength. Some people prefer to train in a more traditional way, relying on floor-based exercises, and if you are happy with your results from this then this equipment is probably not going to make a huge difference.

Does it work for everybody?
Some people have found that using the machine causes them discomfort in their neck or back, especially if they have a previous injury in those areas. There is inevitable strain placed on these parts of the body doing any form of exercise designed for the abdominal muscles, and it would seem that using this equipment can still cause problems.

The bottom line
The Ab Glider can be a very useful product for people looking to improve abdominal muscle strength. There is no doubt that it does aid ab toning, but none of these products work miraculously to give you the body you want. Most people will see the promised benefits if they are willing to put in the work. If you have concerns about pre-existing neck or back problems you should consult a professional before starting to use the equipment.