An ab glider is a workout machine that targets a person's abdominal muscles. The device generally consists of a circular platform, supported by two sets of legs that resemble bars. A dual handle grip extends from the top of the circular platform. There are usually two black, cup-like parts on the bottom of the platform for a person to put her knees on when working out.
To use an ab glider, an exerciser must first grasp the handles in either hand. Next, she climbs onto the machine, placing one knee in each of the cups. She then sways from side to side, as high as possible, while holding onto the handles. This works the upper, lower, and middle abdominal muscles, as well as the oblique muscles, or love handles.
This piece of fitness equipment is often lightweight and portable. It can be folded so that a user can transport it with her to the gym or while on vacation. Since it takes very little space, this exercise machine may be used in small areas, such as in a hotel room or camper. It also makes very little noise when being used, because it does not need power to operate. This makes it an ideal workout choice for apartment-dwellers.
The ab glider usually does not place a lot of strain on a user's lower back, as is the case with traditional sit-ups. It also does not place a strain on the exerciser's knees. Some resistance may be felt in the upper thigh and saddlebag areas, which is an added bonus. It typically provides an excellent abdominal workout for persons of almost any age.
A person does not need to have a high fitness level before beginning to work out with this device. At first, a beginner may not be able to swing very high on the ab glider. With continued use, however, she will be able to complete a full range of motion and complete repetitions at a rapid pace, proving that this machine is indeed a treadmill for the abs, as some advertisements for this product claim.
Workouts with an ab glider may be as short as three minutes for beginners, or up to ten minutes for advanced routines. A person doing this workout every other day should begin to see results in as little as four to six weeks. Those who continue to use it in their workouts will likely see a smaller waistline and flatter, toned abdominal muscles, which can help them look great and feel confident.