AB TRAINING IS one of the biggest points of focus for guys in the gym, and for good reason. Core-centric workouts are invaluable both for aesthetics and function, both helpful for carving a six-pack and for supporting your heavyweight lifting habit. Whether you know it or not, those muscles studding your midsection have an essential role—several, actually.
Your core muscles—your abdominis rectus, transverse abdominis, obliques, erector spinae, and (to some degree) glutes—are responsible for protecting your spine, making them incredibly important for posture and healthy movement. Your core is also responsible for spinal flexion and rotation (and anti-rotation). Bracing, flexing, and moving your torso from side-to-side is all possible with these muscle groups working together.
You can use these videos to learn the basics of core training, watching everything for standalone ab workouts to clips that explain what types of common core exercises you should avoid. Best of all, you can trust Men's Health experts to give you the best insights and fitness knowledge anywhere.
Brett Williams, a fitness editor at Men's Health, is a NASM-CPT certified trainer and former pro football player and tech reporter who splits his workout time between strength and conditioning training, martial arts, and running. You can find his work elsewhere at Mashable, Thrillist, and other outlets.
