Complete Abdominal workout

Everyone wants a tight, toned stomach. Books, infomercials and personal trainers repeat the mantra of crunches and fat loss ad nauseum, but this is really only a part of the picture. Abdominal crunches target the rectus abdominus muscle - the sheath of muscle that runs up the front of the abdomen. However, a complete abdominal workout should involve all three major muscles of the abdomen to achieve a tight silhouette, good posture and overall core strength.

The rectus abdominus is, of course, the superstar of the core muscles. It is the muscle that gives the 'six-pack abs' that are featured on the cover of every fitness magazine, and the muscle that is worked by most well-known abdominal exercises. Abdominal crunches, leg raises, pulley crunches and roman chair sit-ups all target the rectus abdominus. The rectus abdominus works in conjunction with the erector spinae in the lower back to give postural stability and strength.

Located to the side of the rectus abdominus are the external and internal oblique muscles. These muscles run diagonally from the sides to the mid-line of the body and adhere to the ribs. The oblique muscles are responsible for twisting and bending of the torso and for rib movement. The obliques should be worked in conjunction with the rectus abdominus to avoid muscle imbalances that could lead to painful muscle tears. The oblique muscles are best worked by any abdominal exercise that involves twisting motions, such as side crunches or twisting leg raises.

The least known and possibly most important of the abdominal muscles is the transverse abdominus, a sheath of muscle that runs across the front of the stomach and acts like a girdle to slim the overall silhouette and support the back muscles. The transverse abdominus is worked during any posture or movement that requires resistance to force or gravity. Yoga planks and isometric contraction are two great moves to work this important muscle.

A complete abdominal workout does not require a great deal of gym time, in fact, all the major abdominal muscles can be worked during commercial breaks, or while playing on the floor with a toddler. Taking the time to work all the abdominal muscles will not only improve posture and appearance, it will prevent back injury and, most importantly, enhance self-confidence.