hi how can i make sure i will get rather a vertical line on my abs than a six pack ? what is the difference in the exercises ?
You probably already have this line! Most people have at least a decent six-pack already just from daily movement (we put a lot of strain on our abs).
The problem is, the stomach is the first place our body stores fat for insulation, as this is where all of our vital organs are held. As a result, we all have a nice layer of belly fat over our abs, so we can’t see those beautiful stomach muscles. Even very thin people usually have about 1/4” of belly fat under their skin.
Whether you have a pot belly or a washboard, the make up of our abdominal muscles is exactly the same. The tough muscles that protect your organs are separated down the middle by a tendon called the linea alba. Horizontal tendinous lines cross the linea alba, which create that six-pack look. To allow the vertical indentation of your linea alba to show, you need to amp up both your exercise routine aaand your diet.
Try this: pinch the skin next to your belly button between your index finger and thumb, then pinch the skin on your side, under your armpit; compare the difference.
Now, stand up straight and flex your abs. You can probably feel each individual muscle grouping, as well as that vertical line. If you can feel it, but can’t see it, the only way to bring it out is to lose that belly fat. It’s incredibly difficult, requires excellent nutrition and daily cardio work. But it is possible.
Now, working the stomach muscles is important as well. Obviously, the bigger they are, the better you can see them, but no matter how big and bulky you get those abs, if you have a nice thick layer of fat insulation, you’ll never see them as clearly as you like!
My fave tummy exercises are these: 1. Bicycle crunches to develop your oblique muscles and upper and lower abdominals; these will define your linea alba. Wear comfortable gym clothing and lie flat on your back on your exercise mat. Have your legs bent, feet flat on the floor and hands behind your head. Tighten your abs as you straighten your left leg. Bring your right leg into your chest and twist your upper body so that your left elbow touches your right knee. Return to the starting position and repeat on your opposite side. Aim for at least one minute of crunches three times a week.2. Lie flat on your back on your mat. Lift your legs and upper body off the mat so your body forms a V. This exercise is called the boat. Hold your arms straight and parallel with the mat for balance. Breathe slowly and hold this position, working up to one minute.3. Plank! Get into a pushup position on your mat, resting your weight either on your hands or your elbows. Your legs should be straight and your body should form a straight, even line from your shoulders to your feet. With your stomach tight, hold this position for one minute.
Also incorporate moderate- to high-intensity cardio, such as running, swimming or elliptical exercise, at least three times a week. The most developed abdominals in the world won’t show through a layer of subcutaneous fat!
Aaand there is no way to selectively burn fat from one part of your body. The only way to showcase a linea alba indentation is to reduce your body fat percentage!
Make sure your diet is on point (and you’re getting enough food), drink a shite load of water, do you workouts and you should see your definition start coming up within a few weeks - IF YOU WORK HARD!
(Sorry for the essay!) Good luck!! Xxoxo