About Abs

Located between the ribs and the pelvis are the abdominal muscles (abs). The muscles are very important to the human body as they play a number of roles, such as:

> provide postural support
> hold the organs in place
> move the body
> assist with the breathing process

Therefore keeping them strengthened is vitally important for the above reasons.

The abs are made of four main groups.

Transversus abdominus – is the deepest abdominal muscle which wraps around the torso like a belt, stabilising the trunk and having a major effect on body posture.
Internal oblique muscles – these abdominal muscles are located on each side of the torso just inside the hipbones and allow the torso to twist.
External oblique muscles – these abdominal muscles are also located on each side of the torso and allow the torso to twist like the internal oblique muscles.
Rectus abdominus – these abdominal muscles are the six pack abs. They move the body between the ribcage and the pelvis.

Muscles work in groups and the abdominal muscles are no different working with the lower back muscles. They support each other so any exercise on the abs should also be done on the lower back. Those with weak abdominal muscles can also suffer from back pain but if you keep both groups strengthened you will support your spine properly and keep your correct posture.