Ab Trainers

An abdominal trainer helps you train your core in a targeted and effective way, with the right support for your head, neck and back. That makes the difference compared to training without a tool: less chance of incorrect execution, less strain on the spine and more focus on the muscles you want to strengthen.

Our range runs from compact ab wheels and ab rollers for home use to professional crunch machines for gyms and wellness centres. The right choice depends on your available space, your training level and what exercises you want to do. If you are just starting out, an ab wheel or ab roller is the logical starting point. If you want more variety or heavier training, an ab bench or crunch machine offers more possibilities.

Your core is much more than just your abdominal muscles. The muscles around your torso, back and hips work together to stabilise and support your spine. A strong core improves your posture, reduces the chance of back complaints and makes daily movements such as lifting, turning and reaching easier and safer. That applies to both athletes and people who sit at a desk a lot. Read more about the benefits of strength training in our blog 12 benefits why strength training is important for you.

An abdominal trainer helps you load those muscles more specifically than with exercises without a tool. The support for head, neck and back allows you to execute exercises more correctly, which increases effectiveness and lowers injury risk.

Which abdominal trainer suits you?

The choice depends on three things: how much space you have, what your training level is and what exercises you want to do. Below the main types at a glance.

Ab wheel

The most compact and affordable model. You roll the wheel forward from a kneeling position and intensively load the abdominal muscles. Does require some basic fitness and core stability. Easy to store, suitable for small spaces. This is the logical starting point if you are just starting with core training and want to invest little.

Ab roller

Supports you during the crunch movement and keeps head and neck in the correct position. More accessible than an ab wheel and a good choice for athletes who suffer from neck or back complaints with traditional crunches. Compact and affordable.

Ab mat

Specially shaped mat that reduces pressure on your lower back during sit-ups and crunches. Minimal investment, maximum accessibility. Ideal as a supplement to existing exercises. Also view our broader range of fitness mats for extra floor protection and comfort during your core training.

Ab bench

A bench with rollers behind which your feet or legs clamp for controlled sit-ups and crunches. More versatile than an ab roller and suitable for home athletes who want a fixed training setup. Takes more space but also offers more exercise options. A good middle ground between compact and professional. Combine it with dumbbells for extra resistance during your core exercises.

Stomach and back trainer

Two in one: you train both your abdominal and back muscles. Interesting if you want to strengthen both muscle groups and want variety in your training without purchasing two separate machines.

Crunch machine with weight stack

The professional version for commercial environments. You sit in a chair and regulate the resistance via a weight stack. Offers maximum support, precise dosing and is suitable for intensive or therapeutic core training. Less suitable for home use due to dimensions and price.

Plate loaded crunch machine

Similar to the crunch machine, but you determine the weight via loose weight plates. Also primarily suitable for gyms and wellness centres.

Which type suits which situation?

You are just starting with core training and want to start compact and affordable: Choose an ab wheel or ab roller. Both are effective, low-threshold and take up almost no space. Also read our blog starting with strength training for more starter tips.

You have neck or back complaints and want to train safely: An ab roller or ab bench with back support is the better choice. The ab wheel requires more of your stability and is less suitable with active complaints.

You are advanced and want to keep making progress at home: An ab bench gives you more exercise variety and the ability to build up intensity. Optionally combine with dumbbells for extra resistance.

You are setting up a gym, hotel or wellness centre: A crunch machine with weight stack is the most user-friendly and professional choice. Multiple users of different levels can get started with it directly.

Our advice: Do not buy a crunch machine for home use if you are just starting out. The investment is large and the machine takes up a lot of space. An ab wheel or ab bench already gives you a very effective core training at home for a fraction of the price.

What to look for when buying?

Space

An ab wheel or roller fits in any cupboard. An ab bench needs a fixed spot of approximately 1.5 by 0.6 metres. A crunch machine requires considerably more floor space. Measure your space in advance.

Comfort and support

Pay attention to the quality of the padding, the ergonomics of the handles and the adjustability. Especially with an ab bench or crunch machine this makes a big difference in user comfort.

Quality and durability

A cheap model that gives way after a few months is ultimately more expensive than a solid version. Pay attention to the maximum user load and the quality of the connection points and hinges.

Honest about the limits of an abdominal trainer

An abdominal trainer strengthens and trains your abdominal muscles. It does not help with locally burning belly fat: fat burning is a general body process that you cannot direct to one spot. Visible abs are the result of a combination of strength training, cardio and nutrition.

Who is an abdominal trainer suitable for?

An abdominal trainer suits virtually everyone who wants to work on a stronger core, from beginner to advanced athlete. Also for athletes in rehabilitation an ab roller or ab bench can play a valuable role in building core stability.

An abdominal trainer is less suitable if you are primarily looking for fat burning or a full body training. In that case an exercise bike or more versatile strength machine is a better supplement.

Note: are you pregnant or recovering from an abdominal or back operation? Then always consult your doctor or physiotherapist first before starting core training.

Frequently asked questions about abdominal trainers

What is the difference between an ab wheel and an ab roller?

You actively roll an ab wheel forward from a kneeling position. Your abdominal muscles must control the movement themselves, making it more challenging. An ab roller guides you through the crunch movement and supports head and neck. An ab roller is more accessible for beginners and athletes with neck complaints. An ab wheel is more intensive and requires more basic fitness.

Is an abdominal trainer also suitable for back complaints?

That depends on the type and severity of the complaint. An ab roller or ab bench with back support can actually help strengthen the core and relieve the back with mild complaints. An ab wheel is less suitable with active back complaints. Always consult a physiotherapist when in doubt before starting.

Which abdominal trainer is best for beginners?

An ab roller is the most accessible: good support, low-threshold to use and affordable. An ab wheel is also a good choice if you want a bit more challenge and already have some basic fitness.

How often should I train my abdominal muscles?

Two to three times per week is sufficient for most athletes. Abdominal muscles, like other muscles, need recovery time. Daily intensive training is not more effective and increases the risk of overloading.

Is an abdominal trainer worth it if I already do cardio?

Yes. Cardio training and abdominal muscle training complement each other. Cardio contributes to general fat burning and fitness, abdominal training specifically strengthens the core. Combine both for the best result.

How much does a good abdominal trainer cost?

The range runs from about €10 for a simple ab wheel to several thousand euros for a professional crunch machine. For home use you can already find solid models in the price range of €30 to €300, depending on the type and quality.

Need help with your choice?

Not yet sure which abdominal trainer suits you best? We will be happy to help with targeted advice. You can reach our fitness specialists by phone on +31 (0)413-256800, send an email or visit our store in Volkel, the Netherlands.