So you want to get lean and toned abs, right? Well, you’re not the only one. You’re also not the only one who has done millions of crunches and not seen much in the way of results. This is not surprising to me, as an entire session of crunches is not the way you’ll drop inches from your waistline to see the shredded abs you dream of. Does it really make sense that the muscles will build enough mass to just tear through the fat that is currently covering them? Not exactly. Well, here’s what I’ve found to work for my clients.
Nutrition.
I always make sure my clients are eating within their caloric needs. Regularly eating an excess of calories will absolutely add some fat to your physique. So, inversely, it makes sense that regularly eating slightly less calories than you need will more definition to your abdominal region as well as the rest of your body. In regards to taking cheat days throughout the week, ask yourself how long you want to wait before you see some real results. Remember, each cheat day puts your results that much further away.
Compound resistance exercises.
I realize that this term may sound like some incredibly complicated idea that requires years of experience to grasp. However, it’s very simple. Just grab some weights and do movements that require as many muscles as possible. Some personal favorites of mine include the wood-chop, squat thrusters, and my absolute favorite: the squatting row. Not sure what these are? Time to ask your trainer! The reason I promote these compound movements is because the more muscles you use in a movement, the more calories you’re burning. This is especially important if you’re not the type to go hang out at the gym for 4 hours. Don’t worry. I’m not that type either.
Cardio fun.
Don’t write me off just yet. I know that for many of you cardio is not fun…at all. That may just be the biggest reason your abs are not bursting through your skin just yet. It’s important to find an activity that requires significant amounts of sweat, and is also enjoyable! If you have to go dragging yourself onto the treadmill for 6 hours a week, it’s time to find a new hobby. If you’re not sure what to pick, you can start by exercising with friends in a class or a high energy sport like tennis or soccer.
So that’s it, everybody. This is what you need to do for your abs. Put in maximum effort and don’t stop trying. You never know just how many days you are from seeing some results!
For more information, contact Herald Castedo, Certified Personal Trainer at Fitness Together in South Miami, 305-665-3694; or Fitness Together in Coconut Grove, 305-648-2202.
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