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How to Navigate the Gym

By Paige Waehner, About.com

Updated January 02, 2008

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The Abs and Flexibility Section

Most clubs will set aside an area for you to stretch and/or work your abs. This is often a favorite part of the gym, but this area can often look a little intimidating with all kinds of contraptions. You might see mats, exercise balls, BOSU Balance Trainers, resistance bands, inflatable disks, balance boards and even giant foam rollers.

Don't worry...you don't have to know how to use all those things! But, you do want to make sure you stretch after your workouts to keep your muscles supple and flexible. You don't need anything other than a mat for that. Below are examples of flexibility workouts for all fitness levels:

If you are interested in some of the other equipment and working your abs, you'll find some resources below:

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