ABS WORKOUT

Abdominal exercises are quite accomplished in training rooms. The practice of these exercises is very important because the lack of stability of the core muscles is a risk factor for the development of low back pain. In addition, more than 80% of the problems of low back pain are correlated with the lack of strengthening of the trunk musculature [1,2]. The trunk musculature, in which the abdominal wall is also part, is composed of muscles that are in anterior view: m. rectus abdominis, m. internal abdominal oblique, m. external abdominal oblique and transversus abdominis, lateral view: m. quadratus lumborum, and in the posterior view: erector spinal and muscles and m. latissimus dorsi. These muscles, when worked together, form a kind of inflatable structure, by generating intra-abdominal pressure [3]. In addition to these muscles, the iliopsoas also assists in pelvic balance, participating in hip flexion movement. The importance of the work of the abdominal muscles is not restricted only to the resisted training, but also in daily activities, since a good activation of these muscles in daily activities prevents injuries associated with the activities [4], besides these muscles help in the maintenance of the curves of the spine [5]. Most of the movements of the change and pelvis are made mainly by the Rectus abdominis and External abdominal oblique muscles [6]. Thus, in view of the variety of abdominal exercises and in order to assist professionals working with training prescription, it is extremely important to clarify issues related to abdominal exercises and their applicability, justifying a review that addresses the most important issues relevant to this theme.