Find your 6 pack at FitStop

Of course, I'm talking about your abs, silly.

We've all heard the term "6 Pack", which in reality is the rectus abdominis, another term im sure you've heard. This muscle is located in the front of your adominal cage and is divided into segments by bands of connective tissues. These segments give the effect of a "6-pack".

While this may be the goal of many to have that look, it's important to remember all the other muscles in the abdominal cage and their functions. After all, you wouldn't be able to hold yourself up with only a 6 pack.

Let's keep looking at the Rectus Abdominus. Its function is Trunk flexion. This helps you raise your body up from a laying down position, so a great exercise example is a Sit-up.

Next we have External and Internal Oblique. I think we've all heard the term oblique before, the muscle just above the hip and under the lats. Their main function is flexing and rotating the spine. Some good exercises for the oblique are diagonal chops and cable torso twists.

The Transverse Abdominis is a special one. It's the deepest muscle and the one that plays a key role in core stability, it compresses your abdomen. A great exercise is a hollow hold to strengthen this muscle.

The Erector Spinae Group. If your an old Denise Austin fan like I was--still am-- you'll have likely heard her say these words a lot in her workouts. This group extends the spine, like in a Good Morning.

Lastly, we have the Quadratus Lumborum. Located in the lower back, it plays a crucial role in spinal stability and movement. Go to exercises: Side bends, or back arches.

Phew! What and amazing body we have and that is just the center of it!

Hopefully this will help you get a little more out of your "Core" workouts. It's so much more than just sit ups. It's so much more than just a 6 pack.

Oh, and that's reminds me: we all have a 6-pack. Some aren't visible, but they are there!! Remember, you can workout in the gym, but true "abs" happen in the kitchen.

PSA's

We are missing a 15 lb dumbbell. It may have just been misplaced. If you think of it, please look around and under things... a good reminder to always put things away.

Don't forget to check out our app and add it to your homepage! Sside.ca/FitStopApp

That'sit for now!! Have a great one!

Tracy