Image: MomJunction Design Team
The best ab machines are ergonomically designed to help you gain perfectly sculpted abs. These time-tested machines usually focus on the core parts of your abdomen, and they tend to bring the lower part of the body closer to the upper part of your body.
Ab machines can help you inch closer to your dream of getting fabulous abs. If you want to start working out but do not have much idea on how to choose the right machine, we have got you covered. In this post, we tell you about the benefits of these machines, apprise you of the various types of ab machines, list some of the best machines available online, and give you a few tips on choosing the right machine. So, keep scrolling to explore these best-selling options.
Top Picks
Types Of Ab Machines
Let us first learn about the different types of ab machines available in the market.
1. Ab Glider
An ab glider, also known as an ab coaster, comes with a cushioned platform, to place knees, and handlebars that need to be reached by pulling the lower body in the forward direction. Some of these exercise machines also let you twist the abdomen sideways, to the left and right.
2. Ab Bench
This fitness machine is designed to target the abdominal area. It comes with adjustable benches so that you can try different types of exercise positions. You can decide your movements and set difficulty levels.
3. Ab Roller
As the name suggests, this machine for ab workouts is like a roller. It is a wheel with a handle passing through the center. You have to be on your knees with your feet raised and then push the wheel in front of you.
Safety Tips for Using Ab Machines
While using an ab machine, it is important to keep the following safety tips in mind:
- Check the workout equipment regularly to avoid injuries.
- The spine alignment has to be right when using the equipment.
- While performing abdomen exercises, it is recommended to maintain a correct neck position. The right posture is when the neck and the spine are in the same line.
- Abdomen exercises have to be performed slowly to get the maximum benefits and avoid injuries.
- Always check the stability of an ab machine as working out on a piece of wobbly equipment is dangerous.
11 Best Ab Machines For Home Workouts In 2024
1. Best For Total Body Workout:Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 12 Adjustable Resistance Rowing Machine
Image: Sunny This rowing machine is one of the best for working out the ab muscles. It has a maximum weight capacity of 220 pounds. Its smooth glide seat is designed with 12 different resistance variation levels to help you adjust the intensity of your core workout and achieve training mastery. With this equipment, you can enjoy total body workout, as the entire body gets involved when you row. Check out a tester’s experience in this review video to learn more about the efficient workout machine.
Pros
- Digital monitor for displaying time, count, total count, calories burned, etc.
- Non-slip handlebars
- Ergonomically designed and padded seat for comfort
- Anti-slip footplates with adjustable foot straps
- Compact design
- 12-level hydraulic resistance system
Cons
- Hydraulic piece may heat up
- May not be comfortable for tall people
2. Best Multifunctional:Wonder Core Smart : Cardio+ Body Muscle Toning – Fitness Equipment
Image: Wonder Core 
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The whopping 831 positive reviews on Amazon reflect the superior quality of this product.
With this Wonder Core smart ab machine, your dream of shredded abs and a stronger core is not difficult to achieve. One of the best home gym accessories, it promises a wholesome workout that involves the upper, middle, and lower abs. This fitness accessory is also designed to focus on your thighs, calves, biceps, triceps, and forearms. Check out this review cum testing video to learn more about this multifunctional machine.
Pros
- A combination of muscle toning and cardio
- Compact, portable, and adjustable
- Doesn’t require assembling
- A complete home exercise system
- Includes a free online user manual and fitness guide
Cons
- May make a squeaky noise
- Resistance bars may be hard
"I got this one for its space-saving design. It has been pretty useful for enhancing my situps and scissor kicks. Although its durability is yet to be tested, I vouch for this product's functional design."
3. Best Lightweight:Bssay Ab Roller, Home Abdominal Exercise Equipment Core Workout Machine
This is one of the best abs workout machines for building overall strength. It works effectively on your abdominals and entire core. Each rollout exercise involves the shoulders, back, abs, and hip flexors.
Pros
- Width of 3.7in imparts stability and strength to the roller
- Made of durable materials—strong stainless steel, PVC, and non-slip TPR
- Designed for overall strength building
- Easy to assemble and disassemble
- Lightweight and portable
- Ergonomic foam handles
- Complimentary knee pad and resistance band
Cons
- Short handles may be difficult to hold
- Knee pad is small
"It has been a reliable and compact aid in facilitating my at-home ab exercises. Assembling it did take me some time and effort; however, I give it my nod of approval for its smooth rolling ability and simple design. All in all, it is a decent pick for seasoned fitness enthusiasts like me."
Remember Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW1205 12 Adjustable Resistance Rowing Machine | Cardio+ Body Muscle Toning - Fitness Equipment | Bssay Ab Roller Home Abdominal Exercise Equipment Core Workout Machine | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | - | 20.47"L x 21.65"W x 14.96"H | 6.6"L x 12.4"W x 6.6"H |
| Weight | - | 5.9 Kilograms | 670 Grams |
| Material | - | Steel-ABS-TPR-POM-Sponge | Stainless Steel, Polyvinyl Chloride |
| Color | - | N Green | Red-no resistance rope |
| Number of Items | - | 1 | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | - | 831 | 451 |
| Price | $99.99 | $121.75 | $15.99 |
4. Best Resistance Adjustable:Core Max Pro Total Body Workout & Cardio Machine
Image: Core Max Burn calories and get those chiseled ABS with the Pro workout machine by the trusted brand Core Max. This machine offers three resistance training levels and uses a power-assisted rebound system to enhance results and minimize the strain on the body. It is ideal for fitness enthusiasts as it includes a nutritional guide, workout videos to maintain proper form and technique, meal prep videos, and a workout chart to help achieve fitness training mastery.
Pros
- Combines eight muscle-burning exercises
- Includes core-engaging adjustable bands
- Offers variable resistance levels
- Flat folding arms offer easy storage
- Suitable for people of all fitness levels
- Easy to assemble and disassemble
Cons
- Resistance bands may be longer than expected
- Base might be slightly wobbly
"This workout machine stands out for its ability to minimize strain and improve my posture when performing abdominal exercises. It does squeak at times, but it is a minor trade-off for the convenience it offers. Also, it doesn't require assembly, and its petite size lets me store it without taking up much space."
Caution5. Best User-Friendly Design:Tristar Products Inc. AbCoaster MAX Ab Machine Exercise Equipment
Image: Abcoaster Max This is one of the best ab machines to have in your home gym. It has multiple user-friendly features and is designed to give you lean abs and defined oblique muscles. The swift bottom-up motion is a natural curve and is helpful in constant contraction of the core. It is ideal for advanced exercisers as it effectively works on the lower, middle, and upper abs as well as the right and left obliques for a complete and good workout.
Pros
- Ideal for a comprehensive workout
- Comes with a cushioned free-style seat and arm pads
- Has an inbuilt battery-operated rep counter
- Built-in digital display for workout progress tracking
- Compact and easy to store
Cons
- May not be easy to assemble
- Cushion for legs may not be comfortable
"The machine's unique curved design and heavy-duty steel construction stood out to me. Its arm support feature reduces the strain on my neck, making my exercise regime more comfortable and effective. Last but not least, assembling it was a breeze."
6. Best Easy-To-Assemble:Goplus Ab Fitness Crunch, Ab Trainer, Abdominal Machine, Workout Exerciser
This is one of the best ab machines for effective abdominal exercise. It comes with comfortable padding and is designed to enhance core strength and muscles by stimulating metabolism and burning body fat. With this easy-to-assemble and convenient-to-use equipment, you can get those perfectly formed abdominal muscles faster.
Pros
- Made of strong steel
- Soft foam padding for a good grip
- Advanced ergonomic design eliminates workout stress
- Lightweight and portable
- Comes with a 3-inch thick head support
- Sturdy, durable, and easy to store
Cons
- Neck position may be awkward
- Screws may not be of the right size
"Thanks to this equipment, I can now perform a variety of crunches from the comfort of my home. To make my workout experience more comfortable, I use it on a thick yoga mat for some cushioning. Also, it was easy to assemble, so I could start using it right away."
7. Best Space-Saving:ABS Stimulator Muscle Toner, Rechargeable Ab Machine
For those who don’t find time and place to exercise, this rechargeable, space-saving, and effective ab machine is a steal. It is a fusion of Chinese acupuncture and EMS technology. You can look better and feel amazing with this abs stimulator that builds and tones muscles and core through targeted muscle and core engagement.
Pros
- Includes an abdominal belt, two arm belts, and self-adhesive gels
- Can be used anytime and anywhere
- Easy to carry and store
- USB rechargeable
- Can be worn under clothes
Cons
- May have sticking issues
- May fall off the body while working
8. Best Foldable:Ideer Life Core & Abdominal Trainers Abdominal Workout Machine
Invest in this ab machine that gives you a full-body workout. It is designed to allow you to choose between three resistance levels. You can burn those extra calories without going to the gym with this equipment. This foldable machine is also ideal for exercising and building different muscles.
Pros
- Wide and padded back support for better comfort and balance
- Made of heavy-duty steel frame
- Handles are covered with foam for a good grip
- LCD display shows calories burnt, moves per minute, etc.
- Lightweight and easy-to-store
Cons
- May be small for tall people
"So far, the pushup machine has been able to withstand my frame pretty well. Although it seemed a bit more compact than expected, that did not affect its effectiveness. Instead, its sleek design helps optimize the space in my cozy at-home gym."
9. Best Every Day Use:leikefitness Height Adjustable Ab Trainer
Image: Leikefitness Store This is one of the best ab machines that offers five different resistance and training levels. Just spend five minutes every day to transform your total body with this professional ab trainer at home.
Pros
- Easy assembly and storage
- Made of high-quality steel for better durability
- Has anti-slip, soft handles for a comfortable grip
- Sweat-resistance cushions for convenient exercising
- Multi-functional design for effective everyday workout
- LCD monitor displays time, calories burnt, etc.
Cons
- May not be ideal for tall people
- Assembly instructions are not in English
"I found this machine effective in improving my core strengthening exercise regimes. Though I wish the knee and elbow cushions were a bit more durable, the machine remains a reliable tool for my workouts. Plus, it is easy to set up, making it a convenient choice."
10. Best Strain Less:Ab Coaster PS500 – Original Ab Coaster, Ultimate Core Workout
Image: Ab Coaster Store This revolutionary exercise equipment is designed for a complete and effective workout at home. The workout equipment prevents strain on the neck, back, and shoulders because of the lower abdominal lift. It is one of the best gym equipment for abs, love handles, abdominal strength and definition, as it allows you to focus on the obliques from different angles.
Pros
- Sleek design requires less storage space
- Easy to assemble
- Free-style seat allows sideway exercises
- High-quality and durable steel construction
- Comes with a digital workout counter
- Doubles as a decline bench
Cons
- May be wobbly
"Upon regularly using this ab machine, I have noticed that my abs are a bit tighter and more defined than before. Apart from supporting core workouts, the swivel seat also lets me indulge in other exercises. The paint tends to chip over time, but I would still recommend this option for its utility and versatility."
11. Best Convenient:Lanos Hydraulic Rowing Machine Adjustable Resistance
Enjoy a full body workout with this rowing machine that effectively burns calories and improves cardiovascular health. It gives you the convenience to customize your exercise sessions as it comes with an adjustable hydraulic resistance control knob.
Pros
- Durable and sturdy steel construction
- Comes with LCD monitor display
- Molded and gliding seat for comfortable seating
- Rubber handles for better grip
Cons
- Plastic parts may not be durable
- Foot straps may not keep feet in place
"This rowing machine has helped me perform my medium-impact exercises consistently to target my abs and glutes. It does emit a creaking sound occasionally; nevertheless, the equipment deserves a thumbs-up from me for its easy assembly and utility."
How to Choose the Right Ab Machine?
Selecting the right ab machine is an important decision as it is the ladder to your dreamy abs. Here are some pointers that can make the decision easier for you:
- Strength and durability: An exercise or workout equipment should be strong and durable enough to carry the weight of a regular person.
- Functionality: Some machines focus just on the abs, while others focus on obliques, shoulder muscles, back muscles, etc. The price of the equipment varies as per their versatility.
- Adjustability: It is important to have a machine with a feature to adjust the resistance level.
- Portability: It is always a good idea to have a machine that you can take wherever you want to so that your exercise routine does not get affected.
Benefits Of Using An Ab Machine
Besides toning the abs, here are some more benefits associated with ab machines.
- They offer a vast range of motions so that each crunch gets you the maximum benefits.
- They are helpful in streamlining movements so that each crunch is done right.
- They effectively put the appropriate stress that is required for muscles to recover and also grow bigger.
Robert Savin, a fat loss expert, muscle hypertrophy specialist, and founder of Primal Breed Fit, says, “Ab machines offer several benefits and are convenient to use at home as they allow you to do targeted workouts and are versatile and customizable. They can be a useful addition to your home workout routine, as they provide a targeted and convenient way to strengthen your abdominal muscles.”
Robert adds, “However, it’s important to remember that no single piece of equipment can provide a complete workout, and it’s essential to include a variety of exercises in your routine to achieve optimal fitness and health.”
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How stable are ab rollers?
Stability is an important feature when it comes to ab rollers. Therefore, most of the ab rollers are designed either around a two-wheel system or tread on the wheels to impart greater stability to the equipment.
2. What exercises can I do with an ab roller?
Though an ab roller may look like a simple exercise machine, it can be used for some of the most intense core exercises. This versatile equipment can be used effectively for the mid and upper body.
3. Is an ab roller/machine better than floor exercises?
Yes, ab rollers or machines are better than floor exercises as they can successfully intensify your workout regime. Performing exercises with an ab crunch machine is always more effective and secure as it reduces room for injury, fatigue, or stress. Moreover, it is designed to focus mainly on the abs, without hurting other parts.
4. Will an ab machine help me lose belly fat?
If you are planning to lose belly fat just with an ab machine, then it may not be possible because ab machines are designed to build lean and toned core. In the process, you will certainly be burning fat, but it might not be your belly fat. If you wish to lose the stubborn fat around your waist, then you need to design a workout regime that integrates cardio workout and the right diet along with a premium ab machine.
5. Can I use ab machines every day?
Stimulating your muscles daily may be an unsafe choice. Your ab muscles also need rest like other muscles. If you are planning to use the device daily, it is best to consult a doctor.
Why Trust MomJunction?
If you want to have defined abs, you may be interested in choosing a good-quality ab machine. However, it could be tricky to choose the right ab machine with a myriad of options available. To assist you in selecting the right machine, Wedetso Chirhah, our in-house writer and reviewer, has curated a list of the best ab machines that are sturdy, efficient, and long-lasting. He has also included details on the types, safety tips, and benefits of these widely tested and trusted machines and added a buying guide to help you make an informed choice.
The Bottom Line
If having sculpted abs is your fitness goal, you need a good ab machine to help you achieve that dream. Ab machines have various features to help you work the right muscles and tone them for the best results. For example, the Bssay Ab Roller offers stability and strength with its wide design while the Tristar Products Inc. AbCoaster MAX offers a bottom-up motion that targets abs and obliques. Alternatively, the Ab Coaster PS500 emphasizes lower abdominal lift and oblique training. When choosing the right machine, check the design, durability, maintenance, and adjustability for a productive workout session. We hope our list of the best ab machines can help you understand the available products to make an informed decision.
Infographic: How To Safely Use An Ab Machine?
The sole purpose of an ab machine is to effectively facilitate core strengthening and defining workouts. However, if you misuse the equipment, it can be detrimental to your health. Therefore, check out the following infographic to learn more about the precautions to adhere to when using an ab machine.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
