Abs of Steel Sculpting and Toning

Filed Under (Abdominal Abs) by admin on 05-12-2009

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Abs of Steel Sculpting and Toning




Studio: Warner Home Video Release Date: 12/16/2008 Rating: Nr

User Ratings and Reviews

3 Stars Good but only for BEGINNERS
I read so many great reviews about this video that I was pretty excited about it whipping my abs into shape. It’s still a good video but I was disappointed to discover how low key it is. I’m not an avid exerciser (haven’t hit the gym in… 5 months?) but I basically end up spending the whole video making up my own variations to make it more intense. On the positive side, its segmented style makes it great if you only have 5 or 10 minutes to spend on your abs but if you want to do more or even the whole thing, the segments get annoying. They stop and do stretching and cool down for a few minutes in each segment and then it takes 30 seconds to switch to the next segment and you start all over again.

5 Stars LUV THIS VIDEO!!!
I consider myself to be an intermediate-level exerciser. Because I have the “Sponge Bob Square Pants” gene of a thick tummy and back fat, I needed an extra something to add to my routine to hit my problem spots. I absolutely LOVE this video!!! It’s best features are: 1) it offers several routines in short segments; 2) each segment has its own cool down; 3) the routines are not standard crunches and offer full range of motion for the antagonistic abdominal and back muscles. The short segments enable me to vary my ab routines; the cool downs enable me to exercise longer than if it the intensity were maintained; and the range of motion ensures that my problem areas are targeted. Also, difficult exercises (such as planks or bicycles) can be easily substituted with lower-level versions. Although I haven’t been doing the DVD very often for very long, my ever-so-critical aunt said that she has noticed that my stomach is “coming in” just under my bustline. Moreover there are additional bonus routines for both abs and other body areas. This DVD is definitely a lot of bang for the buck!

2 Stars Not worth the money
I got this DVD hoping it would help me lose some inches around my mid section. This DVD does me absolutely no good. It may be good for beginners but not for me. I’ve done all the exercises several times and have seen no results and feel absolutely no burn. This was a complete waste of my money. If you’re looking to get your body into great shape you should try P90X. This stuff will kick your butt and get you into great shape.

5 Stars AWESOME! my Abs are getting some Steel to them
i wish i had taken a picture before i starting doing this dvd, my abs are showing definition that has not been there for a long time. The routines are short, not overly difficult, i never was exhausted or hurting, i always liked the way i felt after doing the workout. Leisa Hart looked incredible and I can see why, her new Buns of Steel video was GREAT and this ABS of Steel dvd was AWESOME, i LOVED IT.

2 Stars Not for Me
I have been doing an Ab Blast DVD from Jeanette Jenkins for about a year now and decided I needed to change it up a little. I bought this DVD as a recommendation from a relative who said the Abs of Steel series was fantastic. I have attempted this on several occasions knowing that it takes time to warm up to something different. I cannot warm up to this. The first few segments in (not the pilates and yoga portions) the line up were moving fast and almost putting a dance routine together without giving you time to learn the form. Just when you start catching on it’s time to go on to the next move where you start over trying to learn a form. I am happy to work my body hard, but I need solid clear instructions. I also want to clarify that I have been working out 5 to 7 days a week for 4 years. I’m familiar with a lot of moves and usually catch on quite fast. For now, I’m sticking with Jeanette!

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Slendertone Flex Pro Abdominal Muscle Toner

Filed Under (Abdominal Abs) by admin on 23-11-2009

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Slendertone Flex Pro Abdominal Muscle Toner




The Slendertone? Flex Pro Abs system provides multiple toning options for those who want greater variety and challenge from their ab training program. With intensity levels from 0-99, the Slendertone? Flex Pro gives you maximum training flexibility and provides a great toning session for even the most advanced users.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Surprised, actually works.
When I first received the Slendertone, I was very skeptical of its claims. Clearly, it looked like another quack item from the QVC or Home Shopping Network, with big promises but little results. The people pictured on the front of the box were clearly already muscular to begin with, leaving me highly doubtful of any potential Slendertone device efficacy. Another ShamWow like product.

When I opened the box, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the Slendertone came well equipped; it came with its own batteries (big plus! 3 x AAA), 3 electrode-gel pads, a nice little carrying bag, assorted other items, and a pretty solid looking Slendertone. The device itself looks a bit like a girdle with an electronics module and mini-display; the module has a few buttons on the sides to control the programming, and the mini-display is cleverly positioned to facilitate operation. It would’ve been nice if they included a memory option to have the device recall the last used strength setting, so I wouldn’t have to re-program each time upon use.

I do appreciate the independent left/right control settings; that’s a thoughtful touch. My abs are better developed on my right hand side, so I can set the workout on my left to be stronger.

A word about my body type before we begin; I’m thin, good shape, but not great shape. I workout and run 3 times a week; my stomach area is thin, and somewhat but not really defined, and after doing many crunches, was open to another tactic for better defining the abdominal area. Note, this probably won’t work very well if you have folds of fat covering your abdomen, because obviously you’ll have to do some cardio to rid yourself of those extra fat cells.

FIRST WEEK; I set the device on level 25, and used it for 20 minutes at a time. The first time I used it, it felt ticklish, possibly because it was on a low setting. I also used it after eating a meal (bad idea), and felt stomach pains afterwards. So I decided to take a break from using the machine.

SECOND WEEK; I set the device to level 30, and used it after my gym workouts (but before any meals). In all of my gym workouts, I do regular crunches, as well as crunches on medicine balls, and reverse decline crunches. Using the Slendertone was like getting a nice “massage” after a hard workout, further working the abdominal area.

THIRD WEEK; Kept up the same routine of using the Slendertone after my gym workouts, and moved the device to level 35. I think I’m starting to see some better definition around my abs! Could it be the Slendertone, or just my imagination? Hmm, better keep using it.

Slight setback between 3rd and 4th weeks when I decided to splurge and eat at a buffet restaurant.

FOURTH WEEK; After recovering from the buffet restaurant, increased to level 40. During Slendertone usage, I also tensed my stomach area to increase effectiveness.

After 4 weeks of continuous usage, I’d say the Slendertone has helped me to get a better defined stomach area. I wouldn’t say it’s a perfect six-pack like the Spartans in the movie 300, but it seems to be more effective than just doing crunches on my own. And that, is pretty helpful. 5 stars for actually being effective, and not gimmicky.

5 Stars Surprisingly… It Seems to Work
I’m a skeptic by nature, so the Slendertone FlexPro Abdominal Muscle Toner seemed like a ‘joke’ to me when I received it as part of the Amazon Vine Program. My husband, a guy who works out daily and has for over 30 years, spotted this item and decided he wanted to be my ‘guinea pig’ for the test drive of this item. For the record he is ‘fit’ = 165 pounds, 5′10″, 32″ waist, 10% bodyfat and does abdominal exercises daily. He’s also 74 years old.

Despite being fit for any age, he still has ‘problem’ areas (love handles) he doesn’t like and can’t seem to get rid of thus the desire to try the belt. I was a bit stunned by his offer, but let him go for it.

The following are his comments from the past 4 weeks of daily use (mid-intensity #3-4, 30 minutes 1x a day). He did not lose weight or change his diet of beer and pizza during this time. He continued his daily 1 hour work-out routine, simply adding time with the belt at the end while he was cooling off before his shower.

Comments made regarding the belt and its use 30 day trial are as follows.

Week 1:

“The belt when turned on feels ‘tingly’. If turned up too high, it actually hurts!”

“As much as I work out, I can’t imagine this thing is going to do any good.”

“The gooey pads (3 of them) seem weird, but if they are covered up with the plastic wrap they came in, the belt doesn’t work.”

“The pads are expensive… I wonder how long they’ll last before I have to buy more?”

“I’m having trouble finding just the right setting.”

Week 2:

“I can’t tell if it’s doing any good or not?”

“It actually hurt when I wore it while I went walking this morning…”

Week 3:

“I don’t know… give me a few more days.”

“How much are those extra pads anyway?” (About $25 on Amazon for 3 sets of 3.)

“I’m not going to turn it up too much. It seems to work the muscles when I put it in the mid-range.”

Week 4:

“I’m not sure if it’s the device or not, but my Levi’s fresh out of the dryer are fitting better around the waist. All my pants are going on a lot easier and buttoning easily.”

“I want to keep using it because damn-it… it seems to work.”

Our ‘Non-Skeptical’ Conclusion:

This belt is a good supplement to further tone already fit abdominal muscles by waking up the muscles in the abdominal area with low-level electrical currents. It’s similar to very expensive machines used by physical therapist and should be used as directed for maximum benefits.

5 Stars Slendertone
This take a little while to get used to. Correct placement on your abdomin is essential. Once you get it on and get it turned up you will be able to see your muscles contracting. It has a range from 0 to 99. My experience is that you really have to get it up over the 50 mark for it to be effective. I’ve been using it for 3 weeks now but can’t keep up with the 5 time a week that is suggested. There are gel contact pads that you need to operate the belt. It comes with one set that are supposed to last for about 30 times. They run around $12 for replacments. They are COLD when you first put the belt on but they warm up to body temp pretty much right away. I see some difference and feel that if I were using it 5 times a week instead of 3-4 I would definately see a lot of difference.

3 Stars It Does What It Says It Will Do… Its Just Not For Me
I can’t complain about the belt doing what it says it will do. It does make your ab muscles twitch I just did not find this overly comfortable, enjoyable or beneficial. Like most people who would look at this, I’m thinking – sit ups without doing sit ups. Nice. I just have to wear this belt thing on my spare tire and eventually I will look like the guy on the box right? Wrong. First of all, there is no such thing as spot weight loss. Lose weight and it comes off how your body wants to consume it, not based on where you want it to come off. [Side note, this is a good thing. Could you imagine if doing sit ups only took fat away from your tummy and left it on your back or your arms or your face. Eeck]

If I had a flat stomach and I wanted to add some definition I could see this product working. For me, someone how just plain needs to loose weight, I didn’t find it overly helpful.

The tingling sensation that shows up as you are getting shocked by the three AAA’s never goes away but you do stop noticing it as much. I didn’t find this to be very comfortable. I bugged me. Doing situps and crunches seem to be less uncomfortable.

Make sure you cover the little gel pads with their piece of plastic or you will have a nice collection of fuzz and other crap on them. They are sticky.

All and all, I would not recommend this product for anyone looking to loose weight or gain a six pack. It does a very small part in either of those two goals. Especially for the money, you would be better off with body weight exercises and a better diet.

4 Stars It works! Who knew?!
I used to be very diligent in working out prior to giving birth to my son, but since then juggling the life of being a mom, wife and small business owner has left me with very little time for my normal running and yoga routines. I still do yoga in the evenings but only 2 or 3 nights a week and my diet has suffered as there are many days when you just don’t have time to prepare anything that doesn’t come in a box. You moms know what I’m talking about! That said, I was SO excited to receive this and start using it. I absolutely feel stronger in my abdomen after three weeks of use with two 30-minute sessions per day, though I don’t notice any physical change. I’m sure that will come with time but nothing happens overnight. More importantly than strengthening my abs, it has given me the motivation to get back into the swing of things and start taking better care of myself and my family.

It was very easy to pick up and use the first time, but I was a little freaked out by all the potential hazards. I suppose that comes with anything, though. I knew this thing couldn’t kill me, so I was willing to give it a try! It really does take some getting used to as you are literally receiving shocks to your abdominal muscles. It wasn’t painful, but it was very distracting for me and also very unsettling in the beginning. I do admit, I almost gave up due to this but I told myself all new things take time getting used to and so I stuck with it and I really am glad that I did. For the money spent, you could probably get several “traditional” devices, such as a pull up bar and/or sit up board and achieve the same results, but you need time to use those items. I’m not saying this in any way replaces the old fashioned way of working your abs, but for someone like me who scarcely has an hour in an entire day for herself, its hard to make yourself work out with that time rather than just kick back and take a breather for the first time all day. I can use this while I work, while I clean the house, make dinner, etc. It’s been invaluable. Recommended!!

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Abmat abdominal exerciser and core trainer with DVD

Filed Under (Abdominal Abs) by admin on 03-11-2009

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Abmat abdominal exerciser and core trainer with DVD




The AbMat is a totally one – of – a – kind abdominal exerciser and core trainer because it offers:* The full range of motion necessary to work the entire abdominal muscle group. Crunch exercises and most equipment fall short of the AbMat!* A variety of exercises that isolate upper and/or lower abs, as well as the obliques and lower back muscles.* A safe, comfortable design contoured to your lower back to provide support and to help prevent injury.* One size fits all!There is no need to worry about height and weight differences between users.* No more balancing!Unlike fitness balls, the AbMat won/’t roll or wobble on you, so you can focus on your workout* A compact, portable design that requires no set – up or tear – down.Take it with you anywhere!* A product made in the U.S.A.Find out what many professional athletes and fitness experts already know. The AbMat ab – literates the competition!The ultimate core trainer strengthens your entire abdominal chain, obliques, and lower back. It supports your spine and puts you into the proper position to perform each exercise. It’s portable, durable, and scientifically proven to work. It comes complete with an instructional manual and workout program.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Totally pleased…
I’ve been using Abmats for awhile now; just wanted another one. Allows for a full range of motion pushup without getting a sore back. Great product.

5 Stars Best ab workout ever
Love this product. I recommend it to everyone that will listen. Buy it for gifts for my friends.

5 Stars Great Product
The Abmat was recommended to me by a CrossFit certification program. Performing core body exercises on the Abmat targets your abdominal muscles in a way that you just can’t get from doing regular crunches on the floor.

4 Stars Good product. What DVD?
Ordered the ABMAT, based on its use by Crossfit enthusiasts. I actually think it works very well. I’m not sure about the DVD, I never received one with the product.

5 Stars Much better than regular situps!
This product will really stretch your abs AND your lower back. I highly recommend it! (It’s very lightweight and easy to take into the gym.)

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Slendertone Flex Go Abdominal Toning System Unisex

Filed Under (Abdominal Abs) by admin on 01-11-2009

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Slendertone Flex Go Abdominal Toning System Unisex




Strengthen, tone, and firm your ab muscles with the Slendertone Flex Go abdominal toning system. Portable and easy to use, the Flex Go includes a high-quality toning belt, a set of gel pads, three AAA batteries, and a detailed instruction manual that walks you through two different toning programs for maximum results. The Flex Go is easy to use: simply strap on the toning belt and adhere the gel pads to the skin. The system will then employ medical-grade muscle stimulation technology to simultaneously work all of your abdominal muscles while you walk to the store or sit in an office chair. Signals from the belt will travel to your nerves by way of the gel pads, causing the muscles to relax and contract for an effective yet comfortable abdominal workout. The system has been clinically proven to firm and tone the abdominal area, increase abdominal strength, and improve abdominal endurance, making it a handy all-in-one training tool.

The belt fits easily underneath your clothing, allowing you to use it anytime, anywhere. The gel pads, meanwhile, don’t stick to your skin, don’t require messy gel, and are latex-free. The result is a valuable abdominal trainer that lets you get the slender, toned midsection you want without interrupting your busy lifestyle. It’s even small enough to excel while traveling. The Flex Go–which fits waists from 24 to 47 inches–carries a one-year warranty.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Sit around and tighten your abs
This is perfect for someone who’s busy and has no time for the gym and do those crunches. As many have mentioned, it isn’t for weight loss, but if you’re fairly at your ideal weight and just looking for something to tighten up your abs and supplement your workout plan, this is it. I see the difference almost right away. The trick is to wear it often and to put it on the highest setting (yes it will hurt some, but no pain no gain). My friends saw my abs and were so amazed by the results. Doing regular sit ups would never get me the same results. The only down side is the cost of the replacement pads each time.

4 Stars Does as advertised
I was very sceptical about a device that claimed it could tone amdominal region,but I already see results using it in 45 miinute intervals,three times a day!Well worth the $64.00 I payed for it.

3 Stars Slendertone usage can be unexpected
Slendertone belt gives a bit electric buzz and needs very high level power to get visible effect. Would need replacement pads quickly:)

1 Star I just got it
I JUST GOT THE SLENDERTONE BELT. IM 5′7 215POUNDS,THICK I HOPE IT WORKS CUS OF MY SIZE. IT FEELS A LIL FUNNY WHEN U FRIST PUT IT ON BUT U GET USE 2 IT. IT FEEL LIKE IT DOSE BUT IM NOT SURE BECUASE ITS MY FRIST DAY USEIN IT. I WILL GIVE AN UP DATE LATER

4 Stars It’s NOT a piece of junk…. seriously.
I honestly thought this thing was another gimmick. I bought it on a whim because I don’t like working out and figured this product would require no effort. Oddly enough that’s what happened. It won’t make you loose weight but it will tone up your beer belly. Sure you might feel stupid wearing it at first but if someone laughs at you tell them to wear it and set it on max. One unsuspecting jolt from a Slendertone belt will shut them up and make them respect you. It’s much like being Tazered in the stomach so start out slow and follow the direction until you figure it out. I never realized three little batteries could give that big of a jolt. Cover the pads when not in use and you won’t have to replace them as often.

If your desperate to loose weight then I have bad news for you. You have to eat better and exercise. Most weight loss pills get recalled because they do more harm than good. This device works best with that understanding but I stress that the only effort you need is to strap in on and change out the batteries from time to time.

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Six Pack Exercise- The Importance of Speed and Form

Filed Under (Six Pack Exercises) by admin on 15-09-2009

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When it comes to your six pack exercise which is more important, form or speed? I’m sure if you’ve ever been in the weight lifting world you’ve heard some people emphasize slow, measured form, and others emphasize how explosive the lift is. Let’s take a quick look at what each brings to the table.

Lack of form in your six pack exercise means lack of form in your six pack. If you’re popping out crunches or airbikes as fast as you can and not fully contracting the muscles, basically all you’re getting from it is the calorie expenditure.

If you’ve ever done a ton of crunches at once, you either need better form or higher resistance to get that defined six pack.

The primary benefit of speed is that more calories are burned both during and after the exercise. Higher speed, in a sense, can meld your strength training with your aerobic training.

In the end, I’d never recommend sacrificing form for speed though, as the primary function of your six pack exercise is to build up abdominal muscles. If you really want to burn calories there are more efficient ways of doing so.

Do you really have to choose between the two? Well, it’s hard to get both to the max degree as you don’t get the fullest contraction without controlling your breath.

The best approach is to focus on form and control when you’re first starting out to develop the muscle memory. When it feels natural to do your six pack exercise in perfect form you can gradually step up the pace.

If you think you’re sacrificing form for speed, do one set slower, focusing on form, and the next set like normal. If you feel there is a large difference in the impact, get back to basics.

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