The abdominal muscles, often referred to as the "abs," are a group of muscles located in the front of the abdomen. They play a crucial role in supporting the spine, maintaining good posture, and enabling movements like bending and twisting. Strong abs can also help improve athletic performance and reduce the risk of injury. There are several key muscles that make up the abdominal area, including the rectus abdominis, obliques, and transverse abdominis. The rectus abdominis is the muscle that creates the "six-pack" appearance, while the obliques help with side bending and rotation. Together, these muscles contribute to overall core strength and stability.