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THE 3 SECRETS TO INCREDIBLE ABS
Danette Allen
Being in the fitness industry for the past ten years, I am constantly asked two questions, “How do I tone up my abdominals and get the six pack I have always dreamed of? Is it possible to achieve a toned mid section after having children?” Absolutely yes! You can achieve incredible abs (even after having children)! There are three key things to keep in mind to achieve those incredible abdominals you have always wanted:
It is not true that you receive great abs by doing a lot of crunches. Doing a lot of crunches will strengthen your muscles, but by not cutting down on body fat, you are only strengthening everything under your fat layer. You have to lose body fat to see the muscles underneath. Doing cardiovascular, fat burning exercise will help you see the muscles you have.
Nutrition plays a huge role in the appearance of your abdominals. You have to eat a balanced diet and avoid or cut back on simple carbs and high fat products.
Doing the right abdominal exercise with the right form is essential to help you achieve the abs of your dreams. Remember that quality is better than quantity.
Here are two specific exercises I would suggest to achieve incredible abs, 1) the plank 2) the ball. Both exercises will help you focus on your core muscles, which are the underlining muscles that hold and pull your body together. By strengthening your core you will shape your abdominals flat.
The plank is one of the simplest ways to increase core strength. Find a flat surface, place your elbows and your toes down. Make sure your body is in a flat bridge. Hold the position for 15 to 30 seconds. Keep your glutes from going above or below your hips. Stay flat!
Ball exercises can help as well. Most people do these wrong and wonder why they are not seeing results. Place your lower back on the ball. Knees should be at a 90 degree angle. During the motion of the lifting and lowering of your body, the ball should remain stationary. Do not lower your body beyond the same height as your hips. Go slow and start with 3 sets of 15 repetitions.
Remember in your quest to achieve incredible abs three keys must be in place. 1) If you have a higher percentage of body fat, do at least 30 minutes of cardiovascular workout. 2) Eat a well-balanced, low fat diet. 3) Make sure your technique and the abdominal exercises you do are effective.
Labels: abdominal workout, Fitness Retreats
