Fitness Tip of the Week: Work Those Abs!

This week's fitness tip highlights 3 simple reasons why you should work out those abdominals. While physical appearance is an obvious plus, there are a few other benefits that you may not have thought of!

Look Good

Okay let's be honest this is usually the biggest reason we exercise. ;-) Not that it should be, mind you, (hopefully the desire to take care of our body and wanting to be healthy can drive us enough!) but it's definitely a plus. There's something about that flat stomach or that well-defined six-pack that's sexy no doubt about it. It's important to note, however, that you can do crunches 'til you pass out, but if you don't adjust your diet and make sure you burn fat from other forms of exercise as well, you'll never reach that "perfect stomach."

Relieve Back Pain

One-half of all working Americans admit to having back pain symptoms each year (ACA). While it may seem counter-intuitive at first, working out your stomach is one of the most important things you can do to relieve back pain. In this case, working out your entire core is important as well, as the abs and back muscles work together to help keep bones, muscles, etc. exactly where they're supposed to be.

Improve Balance and Posture

Are you slouching right now? Sit up. Strengthening your abs will help you more comfortably maintain better posture, which will in turn relieve stress and pain in various parts of the body, and improve your appearance (see - there's that "look good‚" benefit again)! Sitting correctly, walking with your head up, etc. are small things that can make a big difference in how you feel and look. Working on those abdominals will help!

Next week we'll take this a step further and highlight some benefits of core workouts, and provide further resources and exercises to get you started!

Sources: Calorielab.com Fitness Tips for Life ACA