I like trying out new ways to train my core, and that is how I stumbled upon dumbbell ab workouts. I did dumbbell side bend before (and kettlebell ones), but I had not thought there were so many activities I could do with this fitness equipment.
I have included some more abdominal exercises using weights into my routine, and I have to say it was a good decision as these sorts of movements work the abdominal muscles efficiently. Besides, the resistance can be tweaked quickly by using less or more weights.
How to start strengthening abs with dumbbells
If you have not done any dumbbell exercises for abs before, please, let me give you some advice first.
- If you are a beginner, I do not recommend doing these yet because they require existing core strength, and you may end up with injuries. Spend time doing various bodyweight core training first until you gain strength.
- It is crucial to perform the movements with proper form Concentrate on the moves and do them slowly first to get used to them. A bad move may end with injuries.
- Do not use a heavy dumbbell, and always warm up. If you pick too big weights, you will not be able to perform the movements correctly and keep the position. In addition, they will put a big stress on your lower back, spine, shoulders, and other muscles. Hence, use ones that let you work out comfortably. As you get familiar with these kinds of abs workouts, you can increase the amount of weight gradually.
- Alternatively, you can use a medicine ball to add additional resistance to the movements.
- I recommend getting adjustable dumbbells. Getting stronger and putting on muscle won’t need you to purchase heavier dumbbells as you put on weight. Weights can be adjusted as heavy as you need them to be, so you can keep on adding muscle as you continue to work out.
Did you know that using weights for abs helps define the muscles and pop out more?
Now check out the best dumbbell workouts for abs videos I found below.
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Get Brutally Strong with this Dumbbell Core Workout
This was the first video I found on this topic, making me curious. This routine is presented by Funk Roberts. You need to do each exercise for 60 seconds with 15 seconds of rest. You should do as many repetitions as possible in the given time.
The whole routine lasts about 8-10 minutes, but a real killer one. I have already tried it several times. I recommend it if you need something hard and fast but effective.
List of the Moves
- DB V-ups
- DB Alternate Bicycle Punches
- DB V-Up Press
- One Arm DB Reach Under L
- DB Alternating V-Up Punch Ups
- One Arm DB Reach Under R
Get Ripped in Record Time with this Intense, 20-Minute Ab Workout
Are you looking for a quick and intense way to get ripped abdominal wall? If so, try an ab workout that takes only 20 minutes! This routine is designed to target your entire core and leave you feeling energized and motivated. So get ready to feel the burn.
You can just follow along as he does the workout since it is a full-length session. You can pause the video if you need more rest. Watch the whole thing if you don’t need a break.
This home workout can be done 2-3x per week.
Dumbbell and Bodyweight Workout
This guy shows us more advanced moves such as weighted knee lift (a great alternative for hanging leg raise), crunch with a single dumbbell, and side plank with weights. I have to say these are my favorite dumbbell exercises for a flat stomach.
Note: These exercises improve your rotational strength. Rotational strength depends on strong obliques. Rotational training boosts your sports performance, improves the transfer of power from your legs to your arms, and improves your core stability when sprinting or lifting weights.
Dumbbell Ab Exercises for Women
If you are interested in more types of movements for your dumbbell ab workout routine, then check this infographic below, in which some other efficient moves are presented. It was made for women but useful for men as well. Just use heavier weights. These moves are also great for strengthening your shoulders.
These are the best videos I found about weighted ab exercises. If I bump into more, I will include them here. As you can see, using dumbbells for ab training is a really good idea. But keep in mind that weight loss is as important if you want a lean midsection.
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