abdominal muscle

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Four pairs of muscles, often referred to as the stomach muscles, that support and protect the contents of the abdomen and help you to breathe out forcibly. (The technical names for the four pairs of muscles are the rectus abdominis, external oblique, internal oblique, and the transversus abdominis.) Strong and healthy abdominal muscles support the back during lifting by stabilizing the vertebral column. If the muscles are weakened by lack of exercise they become pendulous, forming a ‘pot-belly’. Despite claims to the contrary (see spot-reducing), the only way to develop a flat stomach is by combining an appropriate diet with regular exercises to strengthen and tone the abdominal muscles. Suitable exercises include the abdominal hold, crunches, and curl-ups.

Four pairs of muscles (the rectus abdominis, external oblique, internal oblique, and the transversus abdominis), often referred to as the stomach muscles, which support and protect the contents of the abdomen and contribute to forceful exhalation. Strong and healthy abdominal muscles support the back during lifting by stabilizing the vertebral column. If the muscles are weakened by lack of exercise they become pendulous, forming a ‘pot-belly’.