Athletic ABs

This is a great training book for abs. Seabourne and Cole have compiled a comprehensive series of core exercises while simultaneously delivering a witty banter to provide a workout philosophy that encompasses the exercises. The focus is not on a wrote routine of 1000 crunches, 100 leg lifts, etc. Rather, the authors tell you to focus your mind on the muscle group you're working so you complete each repetition with perfect form and maximum benefit. I have a bad lower back and found most of the exercises did not stress that area. Some did, especially the leg lifts, but as my core strength increased, I found I was able to incorporate those exercises successfully into my routine. Cons: I also have reservations about the taiji exercises they included in the book (monkey creeps back, etc.), not because they're not useful, but because it's really hard to perform them correctly without someone observing your form and correcting your movements. I think if you've never done the exercises before, you would be hard pressed to perform them correctly and beneficially from the description and few photos in the book. The lack of "many" photos is my biggest annoyance. I'd call it constructive criticism rather than a complaint. I found myself lost in slightly vague descriptions on a couple exercises. A photo of beginning, middle, and end positions would clear up any confusion. Overall: I thought the book had great ab exercises and a good training philosophy. I felt results, especially in the upper abs, after about two weeks. Two or so months later, I find my balance is better. I definitely recommend the book.