OPINION: Tips For Dream Abs

Everyone wants nice defined abs.

Admit it, a nice six pack would go a long way when walking around Marlborough. Its curious that abs or the “six pack” get a lot of attention, not only from the media, but from individuals that have visions and dreams of being fit. In any event, many of the health benefits that are derived from exercise are overshadowed by the impression a rippling midsection makes. Consequently most individuals quest for abs. Despite this fact however, there are a lot of myths associated with developing your midsection. What are a few common misconceptions and what are some key points to consider?

One: We used to think that abs were strictly for folding ourselves in half, we now know better. Abdominals, apart from creating movement of the spine, also work actively to stabilize it. Why is this important to know? Because if we know a muscles true intended function, we can develop a better way of training said muscle. Yes, crunches are still as viable as any other exercise out there for training abdominals. However, we should also focus on the other primary function: stabilization of the spine. One simple way you can try this is by assuming a push-up position and holding your midsection nice and taught. Imagine sucking your belly button right up to your spine. Attempt to hold this position for one minute.

Two: Your abs are a relatively small muscle group, as such, they don’t necessarily require a lot of emphasis for them to grow. If you’re including ab exercises in your workout (if you’re not, now is a good time to start) schedule them for the end of your workout. Alternatively, if you’ve had tough workout with heavy movements like squats and dead lifts, consider leaving abdominals for another day. Since your abs actively braced your midsection throughout these movements, They have already done an adequate amount of work to stimulate growth.

Three: What counts more towards visible abs is percentage of body fat. Look at it this way: you already have all the muscles you want to develop. If you didn’t, certain movements would be impossible. Looking towards the positive side, you do have abdominals, they just need to be unearthed from some unwanted layers of body fat. The takeaway here? Don’t neglect cardiovascular training. Interval training is especially beneficial for the reduction of body fat. Idly running on a treadmill or pedaling away on a bike is an inferior form of cardio exercise. Why? because the calorie burn stops almost immediately after you finish the activity. Interval training is much more effective at revving up your metabolism for a longer period of time post workout.

Lastly, proper nutrition is important for chiseled abs. The truth is that too many calories in the diet can lead to fat accumulation around your midsection. Eat lean, and eat clean and the results will definitely show themselves in the mirror. Remember spinal stabilization, total body movements, body fat percentage, and nutrition, are all four key components to unleashing your dream abs.