Why are abdominals important? Why should we even make the effort to know what goes on behind six pack abs?
Before you can come up with a highly effective abs workout, you need to understand the different parts and functions of your abdominals. That way, you avoid any untoward injuries that could render you incapable of performing abdominal muscle exercises. Moreover, this could also come in handy someday when you improve on your fitness plan.
We see six pack abs and instantly recognize that they’re sexy. But that just covers aesthetics. Did you ever think that maybe these muscles have more important functions than just looking good?
The body is a very intricate piece of machinery, and every part of it is crucial. The abdominal muscles, together with other muscle groups, are very important since they determine our physical strength. That is mainly why building abdominals are vital – the more developed they are, the more efficient your body gets.
You’re probably aware that the abdominals are situated between the ribs and pelvis. What you might NOT know is that your abdominal muscles are responsible for shielding your internal organs from external blows and giving your upper body a full-range of motion.
Why are abdominals important and what are the parts called? There are four major parts in the abdominal muscle group:
1. Transversus abdominus
2. Rectus abdominus
3. External oblique
4. Internal oblique
Each of these divisions is equally essential so you have to keep them strong and conditioned.
The Transversus Abdominus is the innermost layer of abdominal muscle responsible for stabilizing your torso and maintaining internal body pressure. You can just imagine how things can get if this part of your abdominals was weak.
The layer of muscle that’s located in between the ribs and the pubic bone, and in front of the pelvic region is referred as the Rectus Abdominus. It controls the upward, downward, and sideways motion of your torso. It is also the most commonly known part of the abdominals. So when you say “washboard” you’re actually referring to the well-defined Rectus Abdominus.
On each side of your abdomen you will find a set of External Obliques. Now these muscles make it easy for you to twist from side to side. They also maintain abdominal pressure.
Directly below your External Obliques, you can find the Internal Obliques. Their main function is to provide support to your external obliques every time you lean over or twist around.
Aren’t you relieved that you now know what your abdominals are all about? Six pack abs are certainly more than what they seem. Think about it – they were created for a reason.
Building a strong core means that you can avert neck and back injuries. By working your abdominals, you are allowing your midsection to carry some of the weight and the pressure. Also, it helps provide support so that you always keep your balance.
"Why are abdominals important?" – now you know. So start building those abs, not just to look good, but also to maximize motion and prevent injury.
