Función y entrenamiento de la musculatura abdominal. Una visión científica

The training of the abdominal muscles has been a topic of strong debate, not only in regards to the correct way of performing the exercises but also in regards to all that relates to the specific muscular participation. The current article starts from a review and anatomical description of the abdominal muscle, as well as its function applied to different actions like for example, to walk and to run. It also includes a detailed analysis of the more commonly used exercises in its training. Scientific studies analyzing the differentiated action of the abdominal muscle and the hip muscles when performing different exercises (with and without elements) have been reviewed. The relevance of strengthening the abdominal muscle in order to maintain the required levels of strength and endurance, as well as to maintain the core balance and stabilization, is stressed. The systematic performance of trunk flexion exercises including whole range of movement, without holding the lower body, and maintaining the hips and knees in a 45o and 90o flexion is an effective way to train the abdominal muscles.