Do You Need Free Weights For Abs Training Sessions?

As a certified personal trainer, people always ask me, If they need free weights for abdominal training? For most people, the answer is probably no. Most recreational athletes are looking for a trimmer waist and strong ripped abs. Progressive resistance work with weights usually induces some level of muscle growth (hypertrophy); the muscle fibers grow in size.

We all love the incredible hulk as he is indestructible. But, honestly, if you are looking for lean muscle, I am quite certain he doesn't fit the description of your idol.

For many people, causing too much hypertrophy in the abs equates to a thickening at the waist. Of course, your abdominal muscles will become strong and eventually become ripped abs, but you probably do not want to see that area go sideways. Doesn't the hulk's waist look way too thick? The funny thing is, Bruce Banner always see to wear his pants that are three sizes bigger.

Sticking with your body weight of your own torso as you work to flex these abdominal muscles should provide sufficient resistance for growth and strength improvements without widening your waistline.

There's an exception though.

I worry about athletes. This is especially when they are more prone to injuries. Athletes who play contact sports, especially those involving potential hits from the side and rapid changes of direction might need to use free weights to train their abdominal muscles. For these athletes, performance is usually more important than a specific look.

If you play football, rugby, wrestling or ice hockey, you sport often involve the need to physically resist the body weight of another person with your torso or to move another player using force generated at your midsection. You will be better protected when playing by strengthened abdominal muscles. You should use some resistance work (i.e. weights and bands) to help prevent unexpected jolts to your back and potentially dangerous twists and bends at the spine. When you see the way Maria Sharapova bends!

When you walk around, sit at your desk or pick up your kids, focus on keeping your chest and rib cage slightly expanded (the ab wall automatically flattens out a bit), your shoulders should be pulled back and lower ab wall tight towards your spine. By doing so, you will continually use these muscles and help save your spine from having to absorb too much body weight and lifting impact that they are not designed to withstand such a load.

There are many effective ab workouts that don't need free weights or any forms of resistance. All you need to do to get ripped abs is to stay committed to the ab workouts in your exercise plan and what you put in your mouth.