Six Pack Abs Success - The Basics
Most of us dream of getting lean and defined six pack abs. However, this cannot be effectively achieved by occasionally jogging a few miles or simply by doing sit ups and gut crunches now and then.
Healthy and strong abdominal muscles are vital for maintaining a stable spine and core, Having strong abs can also help you avoid back problems that are caused by muscle strain. You can even develop bad posture over a short period of time if you have weak abdominal muscles.
1. Don't make the amateur mistake. Even if your stomach muscles are your major muscle development priority, you will still need to work the rest of your body, too. It is impossible to target fat loss in a specific part of your body by working just that part of your body. This is where a lot of people fail in their quest for the six pack ab look. The do hundreds and hundreds of sit ups, but are not burning enough fat for their abs to show. You need an all around exercise workout routine that works several of your major muscle groups. Only in this way (combined with proper diet) will you shed your belly fat and allow your abdominal muscles to show.
2. Have a diet routine that compliments your workout routine. Proper diet is essential because well developed abdominal muscles are not going to be seen underneath layers of fat. Dieticians recommend eating several small meals throughout the day rather than eating the typical three large meals per day. Frequent smaller meals help to speed up your metabolism, which is key to proper healthy weight loss.
Make sure you are not starving your body. You may feel like you are eating more, but this is normal. A slight increase in your caloric intake is allowed -- just don't overdo it. 300 to 500 extra calories is fine. Your body will need more calories to work off while you exercise, but your increased metabolism will more than make up for any increase in calories you consume.
Reduce or discontinue alcohol consumption. Most alcoholic drinks will hit you with a double whammy. Thy are loaded with sugar carbohydrates and alcohol depresses your metabolism.
3. Stick to a high intensity workout change up. If you want six-pack abs, not only must you closely monitor what you are eating, you also have to stick with your exercise routine. Keep in mind, low intensity exercise will not burn fat as well as high intensity exercise. Strength training provides the high intensity you need. Cardio in addition to weight training is proven to be more effective at shedding fat pounds than cardio exercise alone. Make weight training part of your fitness routine during at least three days of the week. It's also helpful to change up your fitness routine every two weeks. This keeps your body from becoming complacent with a familiar routine and helps keep you motivated by reducing "workout boredom."
Important: If you are new to strength training, make sure to consult with your doctor before beginning.