Hard Style Abs: Hit Hard. Lift Heavy. Look the Part Kindle Edition

First, I am actually a bit of a Pavel fan. I follow a workout protocol based on Tactical Barbell I and II, which in turn is based on much of Pavel's own work and research. So it was natural for me to pick up Hardstyle Abs when I thought I wanted to increase my focus on my abs.However, the problem for me was that this book is too technical and detailed (a strange criticism I acknowledge) and also perhaps unnecessary by its own admission.The book focuses on three core things to build an iron midsection - special breathing exercises, specialized sit ups that eliminate the hip flexors from contributing, and hanging leg raises. What I found difficult is that each exercise is very, very detailed with lots of warnings that the exercises must be practiced exactly as described or the effects could be very different. I found it just too difficult to follow the exercises and make sure that was doing it exactly correctly. They all seem to make sense, but the constant admonishments that any variation could undermine my success if not worse made me quite uncertain and I felt that I really ought to work with one of Pavel's certified instructors.Furthermore, the specialized sit ups, which make a ton of sense, require either a partner or special piece of equipment from Pavel. This just isn't going to work for me. I work out at a gym, so I'm not going to get that special piece of equipment, and I don't have a partner, so this would just be too difficult for me to regularly do the sit ups.But perhaps the biggest reason I'm not a fan of this book is that he says at the end that you probably don't even need to do this specialized ab routine if you are already following one of his basic kettle bell programs. So it seems to me that people would be better off buying Kettlebell, Simple and Sinister or Enter the Kettlebell and following one of his other programs that picking up this book.That said, if you aren't following a well designed protocol or really just want to focus on your abs for a while, and you've got the patience and eye for detail to really follow this closely, and you've got a training partner for some of the exercises, then I'm willing to bet that this is going to give you the mid-section that you desire. But it wasn't the right program for me.

I dislike Pavel's practice of writing very topic-specific books and encouraging you to buy his other publications. I get that he does it to make money - I just prefer people who focus on all-encompassing works to inform and train.That being said, the Hardstyle system is effective enough that I can't really complain about anything but the (sometimes blatant) marketing. The principles match the ones I've learned from the best instructors I've had, and they've produced a fairly strong core. The writing is concise and understandable. The humor is a nice touch.These are far from bad books. Just note that they are very objective-specific. This book alone will not take you from zero to hero - if Pavel is to be believed, you'll need to shell out for his whole library for that to happen.

Unexpected info on how to build strength that makes so much sense. Looking forward to applying it to my "practice".

Goes into the inner body details thank most...very informative. Bit quick and easy writing hear, so going 4 stars but a good investment, get it.

start slow, gradually build up to doing the exercises recommended here and you will soon develop some outstanding abs. to see them though you need to lose that layer of fat covering your abs.

This book, like all books by Pavel T. is extraordinary. Simple exercises with the best science behind them. Buy all of Pavel's books!

This is a must read and builds on Pavels other fantastic books like Simple & Sinister, Quick & Dead. I’ve benefited greatly from Pavel’s teachings, thank you Komrade!

Pavel is the man. Some many great physique hacks that I have never read before. All of Pavel's books have some many great nuggets of information.

These books do tend to get samey. Nothing here I haven't read elsewhere other than promoting his an machine and advocating use of kettlebells.

Great training tips. Debunking of myths, good detailed description of exercises. HLR is way to go with high tension low reps on other exercises.

Excellent book. An absolute must for everyone whether they train or not. Only downside is getting an 'Ab Paveliser' either in or delivered to the UK (Dragon Door take note please) - although there are alternatives given in the book and you will find a few online, not brilliant but would suffice.As ever with Pavel there is plenty of in-depth tips to boost your strength and performance in these and other exercises. There are but a few useful exercises - but real progress lies in doing a few things WELL.This book plus Pavel's 'Simple & Sinister', or either 'Power to the People' or 'Enter the Kettlebell', and you have everything you will need to build a solid foundation of strength, fitness and health regardless of your goals right up to the very highest athletic level.It is that good.

Until very recently, I thought my abs got all they needed from deads, squats, tgu, press etc. A friend recommended this book and I started doing direct ab work. All my lifts have improved and I *feel* stronger and more stable. Pavel never disappoints!

With so much total rubbish written about training, (99.9999%), it is so refreshing to read something scientific, logical and useful.