Although lots of studies have been conducted to determine the efficiency of different ab exercises and how to get a six pack, it is still hard to tell which is the best one of all. Other than the individual factors influence efficiency, there are also many false myths, mistakes in performance and incorrect training that are to blame for the failure of an ab exercise. Abdominal workouts do not burn belly fat; strong abs are just a great way of staying healthy and supporting the spine.

The bicycle is considered a good ab exercise to get muscular abs as it stimulates the obliques as well as the rest of the upper and lower muscles into action. The exercise is performed lying on the back, with the hands behind the head and the knees lifted towards the chest. While moving the legs like pedaling on a bike, the shoulder blades should be kept off the ground. The pedaling motion should be carried out in 12 or 16 reps depending on the personal resistance to the effort.

Muscular toning by ab exercise routine is strenuous and it takes time, and there is no spectacular weight loss coming from it. Cardio, aerobics or some other sports practice may help you train the entire body and be more successful at burning fat. It is beyond any doubt: ab workout requires good routines, technique and good shape. Muscles grow best when exercises are performed the right way.

I'll be more specific, an ab exercise that is not performed correctly may be detrimental for the health condition. Neck strains, back and shoulder injuries may appear when you crunch or sit up the wrong way. If at the end of the session you experience discomfort or pain in the neck, then, you are making a mistake that needs to be corrected as soon as possible. Talk to a personal trainer and ask him/her to show you how to work correctly for developing great abs.

The same suggestion is valid for any other ab exercise, besides the classical sit ups or crunches. After all, that's the truth about six pack abs and the whole purpose of coaching: to help people train with maximum of benefits and minimum of risks. The coaching part thus makes a distinct important part of the training, so that the safety level is at the highest. Fitness and health therefore go hand in hand!