This AbMat review shows how this simple pad makes a HUGE difference in the quality of your sit ups.
I’ll cover the low back anatomy and how the AbMat helps to support your natural curves.
You’ll see me use it in different ways other than just for sit ups.
Let’s dig in!
Unboxing
Table of Contents
AbMat sells several types of ab mats.
I went with the Barbells for Bullies pad.
Went with that one since they donate $5 to that organization to help support dogs in need.
The pad comes wrapped in a plastic with a thank you card.
First Impressions
I own several AbMat products (Barbell Bomb, Preacher Pad, Medicine Ball, Hip Thrust Pad, Magnetic Massage Gun Holder, Pivot Pad, and Box Squat Pad) so I’m aware of their quality.
The AbMat was no surprise me since it uses the same high quality foam.
The bottom is flat and non-slip so it doesn’t move when you’re exercising.
Specs
- Dimensions: 14.5” L x 11.75” W x 2.75” H
- Material: Closed cell foam
- Antibacterial: Moisture resistant, won’t absorb sweat
- Firmness: Soft to touch, firm for use
- Front: Textured finish
- Back: Smooth, non-skid back
- One size fits all: Contoured design fits lumbar spine curve
AbMat Sit Ups
Before I get into the benefits of using an AbMat, let’s talk about human anatomy.
This way you’ll understand how your abs and spine move so that you see the value in using an AbMat.
Anatomy
Ok enough of the anatomy lesson, now let’s talk about how this is beneficial to your abs.
Benefits of Using the AbMat
There’s two benefits to using an AbMat:
(1) Abs move through a greater range of motion and increased time under tension so you get a complete contraction
(2) Improves spinal biomechanics to reduce lower back pain during sit ups
Rogue Wise Crack AbMat
The Wise Crack AbMat is an AbMat version that’s exclusive to Rogue Fitness.
This is creation from the feedback Abmat got from the Crossfit community.
Crossfit AbMat sit ups are repetitive and can irritate your tailbone.
So AbMat added a pair of two seat flaps extending from the base of the cushion.
These padded legs create a “channel” or “crack” that suspends the tail bone during the movement, eliminating any pressure.
AbMat Exercises
Besides AbMat sit ups, you can use the AbMat to help you soften the load of other exercises.
Here are different ways and exercises where you can use the AbMat:
Use the AbMat during Nordic curls to protect your knees.
Use the AbMat during handstand push ups to protect your coconut.
Any exercises or stretches like Couch stretches where you need knee padding.
AbMat Storage
If you want to keep your AbMat off the floor, PRx Performance sells a wall storage.
It’s a simple T-shaped wall mount.
The AbMat slides right in and stays out of your way.
For more home gym organization and storage ideas click here.
What I Like
- Construction: Made of closed cell foam, anti-bacterial, water resistant, anti-slip material for longevity
- Back support: Soft on the lower back but firm enough to support the lumbar curve
- Better contraction: Moving through a longer range of motion forces the abs to work harder
- Eliminates back pain: I can do sit ups without lower back discomfort
- Easy to clean: Non-porous surface makes the AbMat easy to wipe down
- Inexpensive: At $35, it’s an inexpensive solution to train my core more effectively
What I Don’t Like
I don’t like that it makes sit ups much harder lol.
Other than that I have no complaints about the mat.
Where To Buy
If you’ve read this AbMat review all the way through, you get the AbMat’s benefits.
There’s tons of ab mat replicas online but they’re not all made the same.
The best AbMat is made of durable closed cell foam and made by the official AbMat company.
Don’t go for a super cheap mat that will tear over time.
You can pick up the original AbMat directly from AbMat’s website or through Rogue Fitness’ website.
AbMat Review
Before owning an AbMat, I was not into sit ups because they caused my lower back to hurt.
Now that the AbMat gives me low back support, I don’t feel the low back issue and I’m able to feel my abs working.
To make the exercise even better, I started doing butterfly sit ups with the AbMat.
My abs are able to move through a greater range of motion, my lower back doesn’t hurt, and spreading my legs out blocks out my hip flexors.
This gives me an isolated contraction of the abs and I can really feel the difference.
Check Out The AbMat Here
AbMat
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