Abs · Machines and cables

Cable and machine ab exercises

9 exercises from the diary's catalog, all with photos. Below are the list and a sample ab workout: compounds first, then isolation.

9 exercises

Cable CrunchCable CrunchMachines and cablesAb Crunch MachineAb Crunch MachineMachines and cablesPallof PressPallof PressMachines and cablesCable Wood ChopCable Wood ChopMachines and cables
Cable Seated CrunchCable Seated CrunchMachines and cables
One-Arm Cable Side BendOne-Arm Cable Side BendMachines and cables
Cable Reverse CrunchCable Reverse CrunchMachines and cables
Rope CrunchRope CrunchMachines and cables
Cable Russian TwistCable Russian TwistMachines and cables

Sample workout

Templateab workout

Four exercises from the list: compounds first, then isolation. It's a template for one day; how many sets a muscle needs per week is in the volume guide, and how to progress is in the progressive overload guide.

Why machines and cables

A machine sets the path, and a cable keeps tension where a dumbbell goes slack — at the bottom of a raise or the top of a fly. There's nothing to stabilise, so you can safely take sets close to failure without a spotter, and changing the weight is moving a pin. For a beginner, machine ab exercises are the easiest way in.

The downsides: a machine is built for an average person — adjust the seat and handles to fit you — and machines that look identical weigh differently from gym to gym. Only compare your numbers on the same machine.

Log your workouts — I'll show how many sets a week you give this group.

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