Question:
I’ve been training for over a year now seriously and can’t get my abs to look cut. I’ve come to the conclusion that I won’t, so is there any benefit to training my abs? (I give up)
Answer:
Yes, you still must include core exercises in your workout. Everyone starts out believing that they will get six-pack abs. Because the abdominal region stores fat, often genetically determined, it’s not likely to happen. However, strong abs are important for fitness and often predict good health while increased abdominal fat can be a sign of metabolic syndrome, the potential for type 2 diabetes and heart disease. There are important benefits to an abdominal workout other than appearance. In fact, those who did liposuction on their abs region did not reap the health benefits! That’s why you need to do your abdominals. And when you strength train, make sure to hold in your abdominals tightly to get an extra workout for those abs. A strong core means:
- Reduction of lower back pain or injury
- Better external stabilization of the body while working out or doing functional activities
- Improved posture
After awhile that fat will get around to burning itself off, especially if you include cardio in your program 3X a week and a lean, balanced diet. You’ll get closer to being the best you can be.
Listen to Frank Mikulka’s Weekly Fitness Tips every week on Debbie Mandel’s Turn On Your Inner Light Show every Tuesday evening from 7:00 to 7:30 pm on WGBB 1240AM. Also available on www.turnonyourinnerlight.com/page3.html
