Mens Intermediate Workout

Absolutely Fabulous Abs:
When it comes to working abs hard, don't waste your time: a recent Canadian study found that performing crunches on a Swiss exercise ball worked abdominal muscles up to 400% more than similar exercises done on the floor or other flat surface. Can't stand those exercise balls? You can get a similar benefit by wedging a rolled-up towel under your lower back. This angle forces your abs to work harder at the start and contract more when you crunch. Four times the benefit from the same amount of work could equate to better abs in 25% of the time.

Earning Your Water Wings:
With carbs and protein out of the way, there’s just one more base to cover before we can head home: hydration plays a role in performance, too. After 30-45 minutes of exercise, some fluid loss through perspiration is inevitable (now you know why treadmills often have cupholders). When your body runs out of this natural form of air conditioning, your core temperature can overcome your body’s ability to cool itself down (for example, marathon runners competing in hot weather have been shown to sustain temperatures as high as 105°). The point is this: it makes sense to stay hydrated and avoid dehydration – the most common (and most preventable) condition to affect athletes of all kinds.