Abs

Ab Scissors: Video Tutorial & Exercise Guide

Author Claude Michael

Written By: Claude Michael

Updated: Oct 13, 2024

Workout Ab Scissors
Primary Muscle Group Abs
Secondary Muscle Group Obliques
Equipment Required Bodyweight
Force Type Pull
Mechanics Compound
Exercise Type Strength
Difficulty Beginner

Ab Scissors: Video Tutorial & Exercise Guide

Muscle Groups

Primary Muscle Group

Abs Muscle Exercises
Abs

Secondary Muscles Group

Ab Scissors: Step-by-Step Guide

  • Step 1: Lie flat on your back with your legs extended. Place your hands under your lower back or just beside your hips for support.
  • Step 2: Lift both legs a few inches off the ground while keeping them straight. Engage your core to stabilize your body.
  • Step 3: Begin the movement by crossing one leg over the other in a scissor-like motion. Alternate which leg crosses over the top with each rep.
  • Step 4: Keep the movement controlled and focus on engaging your lower abs as you cross and uncross your legs.
  • Step 5: Continue for the desired number of reps or time, then slowly lower your legs back down while maintaining control.

Ab Scissors: Overview

Ab Scissors is a dynamic core exercise that focuses on targeting the lower abdominal muscles, hip flexors, and obliques. The scissor-like leg movements not only engage your core but also improve hip flexibility and strengthen the stabilizing muscles around your pelvis. It’s a great addition to any core workout routine.

Ab Scissors: Benefits

Ab Scissors help build a strong core, with an emphasis on the lower abs and hip flexors. The exercise also improves coordination, balance, and stability, which are essential for everyday movements and athletic performance. Additionally, it’s an effective way to enhance core endurance, helping you maintain a tighter midsection for longer.

Ab Scissors: Pro Tips & Advanced Techniques

To get the most out of Ab Scissors, keep your lower back pressed into the floor and avoid letting your legs drop too low, as this can strain your lower back. If you want to make the exercise more challenging, try slowing down the movement or increasing the range of motion by lifting your legs higher. You can also add ankle weights for added resistance.

Ab Scissors: Progression Plan

Beginner

Sets: 2-3
Reps: 10-12
Progression Tips: Start with a smaller range of motion, keeping your legs higher to reduce strain on the lower back.

Intermediate

Sets: 3-4
Reps: 12-15
Progression Tips: Increase the range of motion by lowering your legs closer to the ground, while maintaining control and core engagement.

Advanced

Sets: 4-5
Reps: 15-20
Progression Tips: Add ankle weights or slow down the movement to increase time under tension and build greater core endurance.

Ab Scissors: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What muscles do Ab Scissors target?

+

Ab Scissors primarily target the lower abs, hip flexors, and obliques. They also engage the core stabilizers and improve hip flexibility.

How can I make Ab Scissors easier?

+

To make the exercise easier, keep your legs higher off the ground and reduce the range of motion. This will help reduce strain on the lower back while still engaging your core.

Can Ab Scissors help with lower back pain?

+

When done correctly with proper core engagement, Ab Scissors can help strengthen the core muscles that support the lower back. However, if you experience discomfort, stop the exercise and consult a professional.

How often should I include Ab Scissors in my routine?

+

You can perform Ab Scissors 2-3 times a week as part of your core workout routine for best results.

What common mistakes should I avoid?

+

Avoid letting your lower back arch off the ground or using momentum to move your legs. Focus on slow, controlled movements and keeping your core engaged throughout the exercise.

Releted Exercises