Most people are unclear while they discuss about the upper and lower abs exercises. Here is some useful information regarding them. The muscle which is originally discussed is rectus abdominus. Rectus means straight, and abdominus means the abdomen. all together we assume the meaning that the rectus abdominus runs straight down the abdomen. Rectus abdominus is the muscle which gives even the lean person a six pack look.
The rectus abdominus is 1 muscle, but it has tendinous intersections that separate muscle fibers forming distinct sections. As most people argue rectus abdominus cant be isolated and trained when the entire muscle is idle and put o training. But conversely we can emphasize one area over another even while the entire muscle is not put to use.So the problem comes with people using the terms isolate and emphasize interchangeably.
Our agility, reflex and many other body functions are decided by the thousands of intricately designed nervous system in our body. The rectus abdominus has multiple nerve endings which are coordinated fashion to create a variety of movements. The nerve endings coordinate our body movements and the upper and lower abs are emphasized upon when we do various movements. The upper abs, which is the upper part of rectus abdominus is emphasized when we move the trunk forward like in a crunch or sit up. ball crunches are also a good upper abdominal exercises. The crunch machines and ab training muscles are good upper abdomen tightening exercises.Apart from upper abs the lower abs are also emphasized while doing crunches. The entire rectus abdominus muscle is trained in any good abdominal exercise when your trunk bends forward or flexed.
The lower abs (lower part of the rectus abdominus) are emphasized when the pelvis moves towards the trunk like in reverse crunches. The lower abs are also emphasized when the legs are moving in exercises like leg raises or flutter kicks. You should note that even in reverse crunches the upper abs are trained but more stress is given to lower abs only.
Now, one thing that I must mention is that abs exercises do not magically melt away stomach fat. Doing upper abs exercises will not magically get rid of the fat on the upper part of your stomach, and doing lower abs exercises will not magically get rid of the fat on the lower part of your stomach. This misconception is termed as spot reduction myth. You must adopt a comprehensive approach towards fitness. Healthy eating is a must.
You should do ab workout 2-3 times a week and also include both upper and lower abs exercises. Only when you do both and from a various directions and different abs exercises you will have a balanced body.
