START HERE!
START HERE!
Let’s face it, everyone has abdominal muscles. So why is it that some people can walk around with a ripped six-pack while others stay hidden? Here are a few ways to work on that sexy and visible six-pack:
[Not sure what diet and training plan is best for your goal? Take our free quiz and find out in seconds!]
Over Training
– Believe it or not, you shouldn’t focus on your abs everyday. In general when performing exercises you should always stabilize your core. So technically, you are always working your abs. However, you should not schedule a time in your workout just for abs everyday. Give them a break. Try working your abs every other day, and don’t forget to change up the exercises!
Crunches are OUT
– As stated above, it is important to change up your exercises. Otherwise, things like over training and continuously performing the same exercises will just lead to a plateau. There are so many exercises that focus on multiple and different areas of the core than just the standard crunch. Try out some of the below core exercises for a great burn:
- Plank Dips: Start in a forearm plank position keeping that core tight and butt low. Slowly rock those hips from left to right. You should feel the burn in your oblique’s. Try performing 3 sets of 25 repetitions per side.
- TRX Plank to Pike: This is a great exercise. Grab some TRX bands and strap in your feet. You should be in a high plank position with your feet elevated in the straps. Slowly bring your feet in as close to your hands as possible, piking your butt up in the air. It will almost look like a down dog yoga position with your feet elevated. Trey performing 3 sets of 15 repetitions.
- TRX Mountain Climbers: Like the plank you pike, you will strap in your feet and start in a high plank position. When you are ready, start pumping your legs like you would when performing a regular mountain climber. The only difference is, your feet are elevated so you really feel this more in your core. Keep that belly from hanging down and don’t forget to breathe! Try performing 3 sets of 25 repetitions per leg.
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Why Weight?
– Think about it, you train with heavy weight to help your muscles grow, so why not try this with your abs? Train harder and heavier with your abs. When performing hanging leg lifts, try putting a dumbbell between your feet. Try 3 sets of 15 repetitions of this exercise.
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It’s a Lifestyle Change
– You can’t just start up some fad diet because you want rock hard abs. Getting fit and in shape is a lifestyle change. There is no quick fix. Fad diets only lead to disappointment and frustration. Sure, you might lose those few pounds pretty quickly, but one that diet ends those pounds tend to creep up just as fast. Start by making sure you stay hydrated. Some of that bloat around the core can be water weight. Then comes clean eating and cardio.
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Just Breathe
– As you might have noticed in yoga and Pilates, breathing is a huge part in any exercise, especially when focusing on the core. Improper breathing causes your stomach to stick out. No one wants that. You want to make sure that core is nice and tight and your belly is not hanging.
Trying out these five tips will help those shy abs come out to play. It’s time to stop wishing and start doing. No more admiring those photos in the fitness magazines you read. You can look just as good. Just train hard, eat clean, and don’t forget to breathe.
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