Losing that extra belly fat and starting to strengthen abdominal wall muscles are a prime factor in getting a great looking set of abs. Realize that exercising a certain specific area, such as the abdominal muscles, may not produce those six–pack abs. Lots of folks would like to sell a program that promises an easy way to flat, six-pack abs. The truth is, there is not an easy way to get there, but the thought of beautifully sculpted abdominal muscles can be just the motivating factor necessary to start and maintain these exercises.
Six-pack abs are difficult to attain, and may even be impossible for some folks. While six-pack abs may be unattainable, flat abs are indeed a real possibility through maintaining a low-calorie diet, regular cardio exercise, and strength training that covers the entire body, not just the abs. Getting all three of these right on a regular and consistent basis is key to even getting close to losing tummy fat and having flat abs. So, before beginning any exercises, decide to make a solid commitment and then get started with these exercises.
For a Flat Belly, Improve Posture
Perhaps the easiest thing to do to get flatter abs is just stop slouching. When a person slouches, the tummy fat pushes out and becomes even more obvious. Proper posture helps pull abdominal muscles into the body, thereby lessening the effect of a pooching stomach. To attain better standing posture, align shoulders ears, shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles on the same straight vertical line. Pull the navel in toward the spine, keep shoulders open, and distribute weight evenly between the ankles and balls of the feet. Look leaner without doing any exercise – just stand up straight.
Remember, this is all about whole–body exercise, not just flattening the abs. Core muscles should be strengthened along with the rest of the body. Pilates is a good way to work these core muscles while working the arms, legs, and other key body muscle groups. Core conditioning works muscles that stabilize the spine, pelvis, and shoulders while providing a strong foundation for movement and exercise in other parts of the body. For the first few weeks, concentrate on building strength in these core muscles.
Flatter Abs With Canoe Twist
Here's a simple exercise that will definitely strengthen the core abdominal muscles as well as tighten and tone the tummy. According to WebMD.com, begin by standing upright with feet apart. Interlace fingers to create a solid grip. Exhale, and sweep the interlocked hands, arms, shoulders, and chest to the left, as if rowing a canoe. At the same time, lift the left knee up and to the right. Inhale and return to starting position. Exhale and perform the movement to the right. Continue by alternating side to side for 20 repetitions.
This is a very effective exercise for flattening and toning abdominal muscles and getting rid of that tummy weight. These basic trunk rotation motions mimic the motions of rowing a canoe. This exercise can easily be done in a sitting position with a simple set of barbells. Primary muscle groups utilized are abs and obliques. Secondary muscle groups are biceps, lats, levator scapulae, serratus anterior, shoulders, traps, and triceps.
Burn Belly Fat With Cat Kicks and Pilates
To do the cat kick, stand with arms extended and then kick one leg forward while bringing arms forward. Round out the spine while keeping the arms shoulder level. Return to the starting position and go to the other leg and continue for 20 repetitions. To do the Pilates zip up, stand heels together with hands out and under the chin, raise up on tip toes, Exhale while pressing both arms down and hold for two seconds. At the same time, lift the heels off the ground onto tiptoes and hold it all for two seconds. Repeat starting at the beginning for 20 reps.
A lot of extra equipment is not necessary for getting that burning belly fat and getting that flat tummy. Taking a walk, standing in line while waiting for that coffee, or even socializing at a party can be turned into a mini–workout for the abdominal muscles. Remember to maintain a good, straight posture while doing any of these exercises.
Eat Right, Lose Weight
It's no secret. Losing belly fat, and getting that flat tummy is going to require taking a look at just what is being put into the body. Decide on a course of action, commit to the plan and then set some realistic goals for weight loss and exercise. Begin in stages and start changing the diet this week, while starting some exercises next week, add more the next, and so on. It's all just a matter of making a commitment and sticking to the program. Soon, the excess weight will start coming off and a flatter tummy will begin to appear.
As with any radical changes in diet or exercise, always consult a health care professional, nutritionist, or doctor before starting any diet, exercise, or weight loss plan. This article is for informational purposes only. The information provided herein is of a general nature and should not be substituted as advice from a qualified professional.
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Sources:
www.webmd.com; Flat Abs Slideshow: 9 Tips for Flat Abs (accessed Mar 11, 2010)
www.health.gov; 2008 physical activity guidelines for Americans. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (accessed Mar 11, 2010)
Mark Oehlert - Mark has 50 years life experience (wisdom comes with age, right?) and over 28 years experience writing copy for ads, articles, marketing ...
