There are a lot of questions that arise with stomach exercises. Everyone wants sexy abs, but what tips and techniques are there to get those results? Here are a few questions and answers that will help you achieve the washboard abs you want.

Question: Should I use weights while performing abdominal work so they will show up better?

Answer: Yes you should use weights at particular times in your progression. There are many exercises that are executed with a weight stack or dumb bells. Remember abdominal muscles are the same as any other muscles such as your quads. However, I caution you about using excessive weight without proper form. When the exercise gets to the point where the form begins to break down it should be stopped. You are placing a large demand upon your body so those three extra reps can do you more harm than good.

Question: Should I sit in the sauna to lose some extra weight around my abs?

Answer: You will lose weight by sitting in a sauna, but only temporarily. Any weight lost in the sauna is only water weight, which means it will naturally replenish itself the next time you have a drink. I suggest a sauna for recuperation ability after a workout and on your days off. Make sure to drink plenty of mineral water to replenish you fluid intake. Remember you should drink half your body weight in ounces each day.

Question: How often should I train my abs?

Answer: You should train your abdominal region and core just like any other muscle group. It needs time to recover and repair. You would not do 100 biceps curls and the next day to another hundred. Always train the lower abdominals first, followed by the obliques, and then finish with the upper abdominals. No more than 4 light sessions a week.

Question: Is there any type of abdominal training equipment I should use?

Answer: In my opinion, the best and most basic piece of equipment is a Swiss ball and maybe a soft exercise mat to protect your back. Anything sold on an infomercial or any high-end, hundred-dollar abdominal exercise machine is a waste. They offer no additional benefit. Some may offer more convenience, but no additional results. Try performing abdominal exercises such as crunches and leg lifts on your bed. The softness of a mattress allows the best lower back protection. It works! And if you're having lower back problems try placing a folded towel the thickness of your hand underneath your lumbar spine.

Question: What's the best time of day to train abs?

Answer: The best time of day to train abs is first thing in the morning on an empty stomach after a good to warm-up. This is when glycogen stores (carbohydrate) or blood sugar levels are at their lowest availability. They're low because a substantial amount of them are burned overnight during sleep. Workout energy usually comes from muscle carbohydrates previously eaten earlier in the day. On an empty stomach, the body is forced to use fat as an energy source. This is why the morning hour is the best time to train the midsection. If you decide to train in the afternoon, try to ensure you have gone at least two hours without food. For maximum results, you want to have the lowest amount of carbs present in your body at the time you workout. By restricting your carbs or energy intake, you give your body only one alternate source to go for energy - fat.