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

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.

I love Pavel's books. I always learn from them. My elderly uncle said to learn something new each day. He never stopped doing that. I try also.I feel I am fitter than ever due to Pavel and his recommendations. Yes I have a six pack. His training works and he explains the muscle action behind the scenes. You understand how it works.

I have read other books by Pavel Tsatsouline, and this one follows suit to his unique style. He is direct, informative and will keep you engaged with Russian humor. This book contains great advice for martial artists and other athletes, in how to develop a solid abdominal system. I really enjoyed his emphasis on developing abs for good posture and protecting your vital organs.

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!

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.

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

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.

I have purchased many books by Pavel and this is another great one to add to the collection. Don't expect your traditional 101 ab exercises like most Western exercise books, there is only a few exercises explained in meticulous detail. Pavel knows what he is talking about and as he says "Its all in the subtle details". It might take you a bit of practice to apply his principles but once you grasp them instant strength will be gained. If you are into mindless lifting, putting the ipod on and cranking out reps this may not be for you. If you enjoy practicing strength as a skill and mastering these techniques you will become a stronger and better person.

Excellent book by the master. No punches (but they can be arranged) pulled. good no nonsense info and training tips. No swiss balls or Pilates needed.

Product arrived in pristine condition, was shipped virtually immediately and arrived sooner than expected.Very happy with service and product. 10/10 would recommend.Book was as informative as the other Pavel Tsatsouline books I've read!

Great book.

Fitness enthusiasts... Read it!