Rectus Abdominis

Composing the main region of the midsection is the rectus abdominis muscle, also known as the abdominal muscles or abs, a shallow muscle which spans the midsection, which includes tendinous inscriptions, creating the bumps of the abdominals often referred to as the "6-pack". Recruiting during flexion of the torso, the abdominal muscle also recruits with its neighbouring oblique muscles to stabilise the torso, and to aid in the countless dynamic movements the torso can make.

With the midsection often holding stubborn body fat for both men and women, many try to include abdominal exercises to reduce body fat and increase firmness of the midsection. Only performing midsection exercises will provide less than fruitful results for those wishing to firm the area, with resistance training providing little result in sport reducing fat loss. A more effective approach would be to include midsection exercises to strength and increase the size of the abdominals, whilst implementing a diet and cardiovascular routine with the aim of fat loss.

Rectus Abdominis courtesy of Fitness Uncovered - Bodybuilding & Fitness

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