A 40-minute, boxing-inspired workout that targets the abs and back.

Intermediate to advanced exercisers — they are not kidding about "killer abs"! Suggested tools include very light hand weights (no more than 3 pounds), a a body bar (to use just for balance), jump rope and ankle weights. You can do the workout without these items, however.

With the majority of abs workouts, you hit the floor, do a variety of crunch-based exercises, maybe run through a few Pilates-based moves and you're done. Such routines generally do work, but they can sure get monotonous! So spending 40 minutes with boxing veteran Michael Olajide is a breath of fresh air for you, and your core. (You may remember Olajide from the classic Kathy Smith Aerobox video.) The first half of the workout is done standing up, and many of the exercises are inspired by boxing moves. Your core muscles are constantly engaged and there are a lot of twists and punches that make you really work. Olajide also includes some cardio (a few minutes involve jumping rope, but if you don't have a rope you can just do the jumping without one). The second half includes mat work. Yes, there are about five minutes of crunches, but you spend the rest of the time doing a variety of unusual, ab-challenging moves. The workout ends with a good stretching session. Even if your abs are already in pretty good shape, you will feel this workout, and don't be surprised if you can't go the distance with these demanding sets. If you've taken kickboxing, you are at an advantage, but most people will have to do this workout for a while to be able to complete it all the way through without having to stop at some point. Keep it up, however, and you will see results — this routine targets your core in very powerful, unique ways, and it's a fun workout too!

 

To Order Killer Abs & Back with Michael Olajide on DVD

To Order Killer Abs & Back with Michael Olajide on Video