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You've probably heard of the importance of having a strong core, but what exactly is it? The core includes all the muscles in your abdomen and lower back. By working these muscles and strengthening your trunk, you'll have better posture and balance, more endurance, and most importantly, a lower injury risk (especially if you're a fan of high impact, full-body activities like running).
There are several types of core strengthening machines, but ab rollers are great for a full-body and full-range-of-motion workout. If you're looking for the low-down on ab rollers, such as their benefits and which ones are best, you've come to the right place. Whether you're on a budget or are an experienced fitness fanatic looking for an upgrade, we'll give you all the info you should consider before making a purchase.
The Best Ab Rollers - Our Top Picks
- Best Overall Ab Roller: Perfect Fitness Ab Carver Pro
- Best Quality Ab Roller: Rogue Ab Wheel
- Best Ab Roller for Beginners: Bssay Ab Roller
- Best Budget Ab Roller: N1Fit Ab Roller Wheel
- Best Ab Roller with Mat: VINSGUIR Ab Wheel with Mat
- Most Versatile Ab Roller: SKLZ Corewheels
Why Trust Us?
ACTIVE.com’s editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools in order to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature products that are highly rated. More importantly, each member of our team is a fitness enthusiast. Fitness may be our job, but it is also our passion. Therefore, we strive to bring you products that we trust and would personally use.
Best Overall Ab Roller - Perfect Fitness Ab Carver Pro Roller Wheel
SPECS
- Length: 9"
- Width: 7.8"
- Height: 9"
- Materials: Plastic and carbon steel spring
- Weight: 4.63 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs.
- Key feature: The carbon steel spring provides added resistance
CHECK PRICEThe Perfect Fitness Ab Carver Pro Roller Wheel contains a carbon steel spring that adds resistance on the roll out and assists the user in rolling back to the start. This bit of assistance relieves some pressure on the lower back and makes it easier for beginners to master the motion. The ergonomic handles on this model are unique and many users find them more comfortable than steel-core handles.
This device moves back and forth, but it's also stable enough to easily angle a bit to the side, allowing users to really focus on their obliques along with their abdominals, back, chest, and upper body. Some heavier and taller users might find the close-set handles and 300-pound weight limit to be insufficient, but for most individuals, the Ab Carver Pro is a versatile and comfortable option. It also comes with a knee mat and a free downloadable 21-day exercise program.
PROS
- The spring provides added resistance and assistance
- Ergonomic handles
- Extra wide wheel easily angles to the side
- Comes with a mat and exercise program
- 1-year manufacturer's warranty
CONS
- Much heavier than other kinds, so not as portable
- The handles are a bit narrower than other models
BUY: Perfect Fitness Ab Carver Pro Roller Wheel
Best Quality Ab Roller - Rogue Ab Wheel
SPECS
- Length: 16"
- Wheel width: 3"
- Materials: Nickel-plated steel shaft, rubber tire tread, NBP rubber easy-grip handles
- Weight: Not specified
- Weight capacity: Not specified
- Key feature: Extremely durable and made with the highest quality materials
CHECK PRICEIf you're looking to up your ab-roller game, consider splurging on the Rogue Ab Wheel. Sure, it costs about twice as much as competitors, but the nickel-plated steel shaft and durable tire tread mean this roller is up for even the most aggressive workouts. The sealed wheel bearings make for the smoothest rotations and the slightly rounded tire wheel will challenge the user to keep the movements straight.
The Rogue Ab Wheel is at the top of its class when it comes to construction, but it's still lightweight and portable—ideal for a home gym or an on-the-go workout. If you have a bit more wiggle room in your budget, you won't regret the high-quality construction of this model. Keep in mind that the Rogue Ab Wheel doesn't come with a knee mat, so you might want to pick up one on your own.
PROS
- Sealed wheel bearings for smooth rotations
- Slightly rounded wheel to challenge the user's balance
- The extra durable materials mean it can handle more aggressive use
CONS
- High price point
- Does not come with knee mat or other extras
BUY: Rogue Ab Wheel
Best Ab Roller for Beginners - Bssay Ab Roller
SPECS
- Length: 12.8"
- Wheel width: 3.7"
- Materials: Stainless Steel, PVC, non-slip TPR
- Weight: 1.3 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 600 lbs.
- Key feature: Interior steel pipe holds up to 600 lbs.
Coming in at 3.7 inches, this wheel is twice as wide as some comparable ab wheels. And since Bssay Ab Roller can move in a wider arc for extra stability and balance, it's ideal for beginners. The core is made of strong stainless steel and the handlebar pads are made of comfy anti-slip rubber. This combination makes for an extremely durable, yet still lightweight product. The cushioned rubber handles are removable making the wheel easy to store or transport when not in use.
The device comes with an included knee mat, which is crucial if you'll be doing modified exercises on your knees. The wheel is softer than similar models meaning it will quietly glide over a variety of surfaces and won't cause damage to the floor. If you're a beginner looking to tone not only your abdominals, but also strengthen your arms, shoulders, and back, the Bssay Ab Roller might be just the ticket.
PROS
- The rubber tread is soft and won't damage flooring
- Non-slip handles are removable for easy storage and/or transport
- The curved wheel shape allows for a wider arc and increased balance
CONS
- Some reviewers wish the handles were a bit longer for a wider grip
- Some assembly required
BUY: Bssay Ab Roller
Best Budget Ab Roller - N1Fit Ab Roller Wheel
SPECS
- Length: 11"
- Wheel width: Not specified
- Materials: Stainless steel, PVC, rubber, EVA foam
- Weight: 1.25 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 485 lbs.
- Key feature: 2-year warranty
CHECK PRICEIf you're looking for a combination of function and affordability, the N1Fit Ab Roller delivers a sturdy exercise experience at a wallet-friendly price. With solid stainless-steel handles covered in soft EVA foam, your hands will stay comfortable (we can't say the same for your abdominals!). The handles even have end caps to protect your hands and fingers from the stainless steel. The wheel is a combination of PVC and rubber tread, so it's durable and won't slip, no matter what kind of surface you use it on.
If you have limited storage space or plan to take this on the go, the ab roller handles disassemble so the device packs flat. This model doesn't include some of the bells and whistles of other models, but for the price, you'll get a solid core and upper-body workout.
PROS
- Stainless-steel handles hold up to 485 lbs.
- Comfortable EVA foam grips
- Disassembles for flat storage
- 2-year warranty
CONS
- Doesn't include a knee pad
- Some reviewers said it was a bit tricky to assemble
Best Overall Ab Roller with a Mat - VINSGUIR Ab Wheel with Mat
SPECS
- Length: Not specified
- Wheel width: 3.2"
- Materials: Stainless steel, TPR soft rubber, EVA non-slip rubber cotton
- Weight: 1.4 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 440 lbs.
- Key feature: Included knee mat
The Vinsguir Ab Wheel accommodates a wide variety of users, with the sturdy stainless-steel core that's able to support up to 440 pounds. The soft TPR rubber wheel and EVA non-slip rubber cotton handles combine to create a durable and comfortable workout experience. The wide wheel glides smoothly across floors and won't damage the surface. The included knee mat allows for plenty of modifications for users of all levels. However, some reviewers stated that the mat felt a bit small for them. At 6.7 by 13.4 inches, you may have to resituate the mat as you progress through your exercise routine.
With the Vinsguir Ab Wheel, users can work not only their abdominals, but also their upper body, chest, and back. Along with basics like barbells and a weight bench, this lightweight ab roller would be a great addition to any home gym. And since the handles come off, it packs flat and stores easily.
PROS
- Suitable for both beginners and more advanced users
- Durable stainless-steel shaft holds up to 440 lbs.
- TPR rubber wheel is quiet and smooth on floors
- Easily disassembled for transport and storage
- Extra wide wheel for increased stability
CONS
- Higher price point than similar ones
- The knee pad isn't large enough for some users
BUY: Vinsguir Ab Roller
Most Versatile Ab Roller - SKLZ Corewheels
SPECS
- Length: 9.5"
- Product width: 6"
- Materials: Ergonomic foam handles, unspecified plastic
- Weight: 0.6 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 145 lbs.
- Key feature: Comes in a set of 2
CHECK OUT OUR FAVORITEThe SKLZ Corewheels come in a set of two to add versatility and variety to your workout. Use both wheels at once or one at a time to add variations to your ab routine, increase the intensity of your planks, or improve flexibility. Since the dual wheels provide so many different exercise options, these rollers are a good choice for both beginners and fitness pros. And since the rollers destabilize every movement, you'll get a true arm-quaking and core-shaking workout.
The lightweight and ergonomic foam handles are designed for comfort, allowing you to work out without pain. The two wheels roll together for a stable experience, and they work on a variety of surfaces—from carpets to tile to hardwood floors. Weighing in at less than a pound each and at only 9.5 inches long, these rollers are easy to bring with you anywhere.
PROS
- Comes in a set of two rollers for increase versatility
- Light and compact enough to take anywhere
- Included training guide
- Sturdy and durable
CONS
- Higher price point
- Much lower weight capacity than most
What to Consider When Shopping for Ab Rollers
Ab rollers are a relatively simple device, but there are some features that might make your experience better. If you're thinking about adding an ab roller to your home gym, decide on your goals and budget. Will this be your only core strengthening machine? Or do you also own devices like the ab rocker, medicine balls, etc.? When thinking about your budget, keep in mind that a few extra dollars might get you some essential perks (e.g., a mat for your knees). Finally, think about the current state of your core. Are you a beginner when it comes to exercise? Do you have a history of back issues? These special circumstances might dictate which device is best for your workout.
Ab Rollers FAQs
Do ab rollers really work?
The ab roll out is particularly effective for the rectus abdominis (the six-pack muscles), but rolling out with an ab roller is actually a full-body workout (arms, shoulders, glutes, etc.), so you'll feel the burn even if you're not a core-training newbie.
To make the most of your ab roller, make sure you have correct form. Try to extend to get the full range of motion, keep a neutral spine, and don't use momentum to move back and forth.
Do ab rollers burn belly fat?
The short answer is, yes. But since it's tough to target fat in a specific area, you'll likely see an overall reduction in body fat. Using an ab roller can torch calories by building up muscles in the upper body, abdominal area, and glutes. And since more muscle means a higher resting metabolism, your body will burn more calories throughout the day and therefore hang on to less body fat.
Can I get a "six-pack" using an ab roller?
You probably aren't going to get a six-pack from an ab roller alone. Regularly doing core exercises, such as roll outs, will help build up muscle in the core, but you still need a low body fat percentage for those muscles to stand out. But, if you combine the ab roller with a balanced exercise regime (cardio and strength training) and are dedicated with your nutrition, you'll be well on your way to the coveted six-pack.
Best Ab Exercises | How to Get a Six-Pack | Lower-Ab Workouts | Workouts for Women | Workouts for Men | Plank Exercises | Best Ab Machines | 30-Day Ab Challenge | Best Ab Rollers