Six Ab Myths

There are numerous myths thrown around, especially in relation to weight loss, diet and exercise. The myths all stem from confusion about how to achieve the results we want.

Where abs are concerned, we all dream of a sexy wash board stomach. While six-pack abs are achievable for most everyone, the results depend on the following determining factors; a persons genes, how lean they are, how long their torso is and also their height.

1. Myth: To get enviable abs, you have to work them every day. Taking time out to rest your abs is important so that your muscles have time to build and take shape. Three to five days of  solid ab training is all that's required to achieve results. Bare in mind however, that body fat will obviously play I huge part in how quickly you see changes. Consider combining cardio and a healthy weight loss plan to your ab workout.

2. Myth: A good ab workout takes 30 minutes. The phrase quality not quantity rings true here. 30 minutes is unnecessary if you are training your abs properly. Results can be achieved in much less time. Listen to your body, it will tell you when you've worked your abdominals adequately.

3. Myth: Slow crunches are more effective. Taking longer per crunch isn't better nor does it produce quicker results. In fact, slower crunches instead of regular crunches are actually detrimental to your results.

4. Myth: You should only train your abs at the end of your workout. When you choose to work your abs is entirely up to you. The only thing that matters is that you work them consistently. If you opt to work them at the beginning, be sure to warm up or stretch first. Working cold muscles increases your chances of injury.

5. Myth: Pilates won't give me a six-pack. Pilates is an effective workout for your core. When combined with other cardio and weight baring exercises, it can help you in your quest for wash-board abs!

6. Myth: You won't build your ab muscles without using additional weight. While the use of a ab machine can increase the effectiveness of your workout, it is not necessary to achieve results. Often people misuse weight machines and as a result don't get an effective workout. The floor is just as effective, available anywhere and is completely free.