Best Ab trainers

A good abdominal trainer is able to train both the straight as well as the oblique and transverse abdominal muscles optimally. Flexibility is required here, because some training devices make different exercises and exercise variants realizable, while with other devices only one or two exercises are possible.

The size of the device also plays a role, because a collapsible trainer can be quickly stowed away again and does not stand in the way.

The training level can also be very important, because not all devices are suitable for use by beginners, because the level of difficulty in the implementation of the exercise is very high. An adjustable degree of difficulty is optimal, so that a new abdominal trainer does not have to be bought again and again with progress. Alternatively, a device should be purchased that satisfies beginners as well as advanced and pros without longer adjustment.

Some devices are sold directly ex works with accessories. This can be a training mat as well as a nutrition plan, but also spare parts are often included. In any case, it is important that the ab trainer has correct assembly instructions written in perfect German as well as instructions for use so that the training is injury-free.

The price for the purchase of the abdominal trainer is also not insignificant. Even if a cheap device can deliver the same success as an expensive abdominal trainer, the device should at least be of high quality in that it is TÜV-tested and thus tested according to German specifications.

A simple device for abdominal muscle training is the so-called Bodytrainer. This works with a pull rope – similar to the Thera band, but equipped with poles for the feet and holding with the hands. With some background knowledge, acceptable success can be achieved with the power rubber as far as abdominal training is concerned. Advantages are that the Bodytrainer is inexpensive to purchase. In addition, it is easy to stow away and due to its small dimensions and low weight also a good companion on the road. The disadvantages lie in the fact that mistakes can be made by beginners during use, which can lead to back pain, for example. The device is not recommended for beginners! In addition, the training resistance of this abdominal trainer is not variably adjustable.

The classic is the abdominal bench, which is also available from well-known sporting goods manufacturers. Due to the adjustability in height and inclination the trainer is very individually adaptable. It can also be used for other purposes, such as biceps curls. With the bank an intensive training in different levels of difficulty is realizable. Since the hip flexors are not involved here, intensive abdominal muscle training can be implemented. The advantages lie in the fact that the bench is suitable for all fitness levels, has a solid finish and can also be used for other purposes. A disadvantage of the training bench is that especially tall athletes with a height of more than 1.90 m can no longer put their head down when crunching because the length of the bench does not allow this.
Another variant of the abdominal trainer is the curved bar as a crunch aid. The device is already being offered at a low price by Kettler, for example. Since the motion sequence is optimally supported, the intervertebral discs as well as the neck are spared during crunches. Equipped with an additional counter, training time and number of repetitions as well as energy consumption can be read off. The frame offers the taking of different body positions and thus the training of all abdominal regions. The advantages are that the device is light and easy to assemble and disassemble. By supporting the natural rolling movement of the torso, even beginners are spared the spine and neck. A disadvantage is that beginners tend to pull themselves up on the poles during training and thus significantly reduce the training effect.