Overhead press for good abs

In 1972 the clean and press was removed from the olympics due to some competitors using excessive back bend to assist the movement. Now we see the clean and jerk and snatch. Two fantastically impressive lifts to watch. When the overhead press was removed from the olympics, its popularity started to drop. Instead, people started to use the bench press. This move however is fantastic for not only improving strength in the shoulder muscles and triceps, but done with the correct technique, has a great affect on the core muscles.

On this exercise it's important to to draw your abs in tight (pull your belly button into your spine). You can also squeeze your glutes to support your back. As the reps increase and the weight feels tougher, its important that you focus on this even more to avoid any back bend. Remember, one of the main functions of the core is to support the spine. There is a lot more support going on in a tough overhead press, than simply doing crunches on the floor.

Make sure you substitute the old fashioned back bend shown above, with strict pressing above the head as shown below!