In this article I will reveal something that will seem very unusual to most readers, especially if you aren’t very experienced when it comes to working out. See, in most cases exercises such as squats, dead lifts, lunges, various swings and snatches, presses or pull-ups can help you way more in getting six pack abs than any abs exercises could ever do. Don’t get me wrong, abs exercises have their place in the gym, but they shouldn’t be your main focus. Here’s why:
Multi-Joint vs. Single Joint Exercises
Let’s first look at the difference between the two. Multi-Joint exercises, which are also known as compounded lifts, usually work several large muscle groups at once. Single Joint exercises, also known as isolated lifts, focus on only one main muscle group.
If you have ever been in a gym before, you will probably know what 90% of the people there focus on: Isolated exercises. They are looking to pump up their biceps or triceps but do not see the bigger picture. See, multi-joint movements create a much better overall body response. That means they burn more calories and stimulate a greater release of fat-burning and muscle-building hormones.
Another benefit is that they help you to master everyday activities much better, since life is not made in a way that uses only isolated muscles. That’s exactly why most experienced personal trainers deem isolated exercises to be mostly useless – at best!
Utilizing Full Body Workouts to Get Lean
I have a couple of friends who are trying to lose weight. There approach is usually pretty equal. The hit the gym, focus on cardio exercises and finish their workout by doing some biceps curls, triceps pushdowns and sit-ups. The intentions behind this approach are great. The execution, not so much.
Cardio is great. If you want to improve your cardio. If you want to lose fat and get six pack abs, it isn’t the best approach though. The only way to elevate the amount of calories you burn for a long time is via resistance training focusing mainly on multi-joint exercises. Studies have shown that full body, multi-joint resistance training increases the amount of calories a body burns for 1 to 2 days. Cardio increases the amount for 1-2 hours. If that isn’t enough reason to start doing compounded exercises, I don’t know what is!
In this article I have tried to show you the advantages of multi-joint exercises and full body training. Check back soon to read me The Truth About Six Pack Abs Review.
Till then,
Dieter
