Abs user manual

Whenever you hear abs or 6 pack the first thought go to the aesthetic concept, of a lean sculpted stomach showing abs.

If we consider abs as aesthetic value, certainly will be the last of the benefits that those provide us on a daily base. It is necessary to have a strong core for anything we do in life. Walking, seating down or running, requires a strong core. To avoid injuries or lower back issues.

If there is one muscle that is require for life (brain excluded) that would be for sure your core.

Performing abdominal routines won’t burn stomach fat but as a muscle, will allow to improve anything else from posture to a better quality of life. Strong cores helps preventing sciatica, improving hip mobility and also a better breathing.

A good routine for beginners would be a 4/5 sets of an amount of reps that does not equal to failure, for 3 times a week. That would be a good start up to advanced requiring 3/4 sets x day. Reality is the more you train it (keeping in mind, recovery must happen) the more you will benefit.

As muscles can grow in size by adding extra weight, same for your core. If your aim to to reduce you waist size or, genetically your waist is wider, avoid overloading you abs while you train. This could possibly lead to an extra thickening of you structure. Same as side muscles, obliques, if overloaded, the muscle will expand increasing waist size. I do not advice to train obliques muscles with weights but just body weight.

If instead you are very thin and you want to improve and strength your overall structure, than using some extra weight into the workout would benefit for sure. Still i would to be checked from a professional, as overloaded abs work could lead to lower back and spinal load.

Choose how to train you core carefully, you don’t need to achieve a visible 6 pack and low body fat. You need to look after your posture, and strengthening any movement you will do in life. That’s why it is imperative to train core for everyone, not just fit people.