I shudder to think of how many hours I’ve spent explaining the reality of ‘getting a flat tummy/6 pack’ to people. The frustrating part is they never really seem to hear what I’m saying which in one sentence is: “doing ab exercises will not specifically reduce the fat on your tummy”.

Here’s the longer version of this truth.

Point 1: You CANNOT spot reduce. When you do abdominal exercises (properly! You Tube clips coming soon) you are strengthening the muscle. Yes, you are burning a bit of energy but nothing significant and it most definitely won’t specifically reduce the fat covering your abdominals.

Point 2: What else are you doing?If you do want a flat stomach/6pack you’ll need to combine these four things consistently for many, many weeks (depending on what condition you’re in when you start out of course). Cardiovascular activities, major muscle strength work, core conditioning and a healthy diet which may include the need to reduce your daily energy intake – permanently! Oh and stretching too please.

Point 3: What’s your motivation?If you think sculpting a flat tummy/6 pack is going to help you find love or be happy I believe you’ll be extremely disappointed. Having ‘the perfect tummy/body’is never going to provide true happiness plus what you look like is only a part of your beauty… surely you want to attract a partner who is not just looking for a ‘celebrity body’? Boring!

Point 4: Love thyself. Your health and happiness is not in your abs! By all means include a variety of abdominal exercises in to your week every week but be appreciative of the more valuable benefits this will provide such as a decreased risk of back injury/pain, increased core strength and improved posture – the ultimate anti-ageing remedy!

Final Point: Exercise, eat well & think good things.If as a result of a well balanced diet and exercise program you end up with ripped abs – all power to you my friend, that’s just an added bonus to being the fabulously happy healthy glowing self that you are!

You’re gorgeous.

 © Jo Woods 2009