Both men and women want flatter and leaner abs. However, when it comes to female abs, there seems to be some confusion. Other than the variation in fat and muscle distribution and percentage composition between men and women, both men and women have the same muscle groups with the same fat-variety and share the same kind of problems. The question is why are women walking away from the same exercises that would help them achieve a flat and toned stomach they so desire?
The question is why do women have a natural aversion to lifting heavy weights? It has been, generally, believed that weight training is only important for those who are looking to build muscle bulk. Using lighter weights and increasing the repetitions has been seen as the way to build a leaner body. However, scientific research into the human body’s fat burning capabilities has revealed that male and female abs both require more resistance and fewer reps to achieve a toned stomach.
What women don’t realise is that by lifting weights, and constantly increasing the resistance levels progressively, they ensure that their muscles remain lean and mean. As long as they are eating the right kind of food, they will never put on bulk and become muscular.
Increased resistance ensures that as your muscles get stronger they are constantly pushed to the limit. This keeps them lean and tight throughout the year. Interval training, or varying the intensity, at which the routines are performed, guarantees that the cardiovascular requirements, from a thorough exercise schedule, are also taken care of. While this is the quickest and most effective way to earn tight abs, your exercise routine will be completely useless without the proper diet.
There isn’t any need to keep increasing the rep-count because both the cardio and resistance techniques ensure that all the progression you need is an increase in the resistance levels. Female abs-workout schedules don’t need endless hours of running or crunches – this regimen takes care of that!
Most people in the hustle and bustle of everyday life tend to eat junk or processed foods. Not only do these food items lack the essential nutrients you need, they also do damage to your body and digestive system. “Stay away from Packaged or Processed Foods” is a good mantra to follow if you are trying to get a toned stomach.
You can find these foods in any department store, supermarket or farmers’ market near your home. Just head for the fresh fruits and vegetables section and you will find almost everything you need right there! Throw in a bit of protein and don’t be afraid of the odd-bit of fat, as long as it is the good variety. This should hold you in good shape when you hit those exercises.
If you are a female, abs can be quite important to your health, appearance and self-confidence levels! Just incorporate these two simple changes into your lifestyle, and you can live a better, healthier life.
Leif Oakman is a fitness trainer. Check out his site for more information about female abs and lower abs workout at TonedStomach.org