How to Get Sexy Six Pack Abs

Let’s face it, the ripped muscular look that has been called ripped abs is very sexy and is often admired by many viewers. But without the right fitness program, it can take a long time to achieve that sculpted look.

For both men and women, fitness includes a program of diet, exercise, and proper rest. The latter is particularly important when trying to lose weight because it helps lower cortisol levels. During sleep the body repairs and rejuvenates cells. It is preferable to rest 7-8 hours each night, but remember that if you exercise regularly you should take at least one day a week to let your body rest and build new muscle.

Diet plays an important role in the development of a ripped body. Protein, the building block of every cell in the body, must be consumed at every meal. Protein sources that are low in saturated fat are the best options and can be found in greens and vegetables, as well as meat. Beans, avocados, and chicken are great examples of low-fat proteins.

While rest and diet are important components of fitness, the determining factor in getting ripped abs is exercise. A plan that includes cardio and strength training exercises has repeatedly given the best results. But to get that sculpted muscular look, specific exercises are going to be needed to work that area.

One exercise that works to tighten the abdominal muscles is the abdominal crunch. By doing this exercise and all other exercises as well, keep your core engaged. A Pilates tenet, engaging the core helps to contract the abdominal muscles, strengthening the back and flattening the belly to provide that ripped look that is the envy of many athletes and fans.

abdominal contraction

• On a mat, lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.

• Place your hands over your ears or slightly behind your head. Don’t pull your neck. You may choose to start with just your right hand over your right ear, while your left arm remains by your body. This will determine that you do not pull on your neck. When you reverse sides, lower your right arm and place your left hand over your left ear.

• Roll your abdomen up and out wide as you point your right elbow toward your left knee. (When you reverse sides, your left elbow will be pointing toward your right knee.)

Repeat 8 to 12 times and reverse. Goal: 3 sets.