Probably one the most envied muscle group and certainly the most difficult to attain, the “six-pack” abdominal muscles are in season. Most, however, have no idea how to build and lean down their midsection and even worse, many are armed with only misinformation. I’m here to give you 2 strategies that I use that when followed should solve your issues. I am not a doctor or trainer so I can’t advise you to do this. What I can do, though, is tell you my experience and opinions and do with it what you will.

First, the abs muscles are made up of muscle fibers just like your chest, arms and legs. Why then does everyone think that they should be trained differently? Reps of 200? Doing them daily? Using little to no resistance? Maybe it’s the late night infomercials that have muddied the waters but I am here to clarify my opinion on the subject: train your abs like you train all your muscle groups. I use moderate resistance so you can squeeze out 12-18 reps. I do 3-5 sets per movement. I do 3-5 movements. I make sure my movements vary so I can hit lower abs, sides (obliques), upper, and mids.

Second, it’s essential that I lean down. As a man, my body fat settles in my belly rather than butt, legs or arms. What I’ve learned is that you won’t ever see your buffed-up abs if they are hiding under a layer of blubber. This doesn’t mean you have do your abs more often or do more weight. What it means is that I feel it is crucial to do cardio and watch the diet. I do cardio 4-5 days per week for at least 45 mins. I make sure that at least 4-5 days per week I am walking, jogging, running or anything that will get my heart rate above 75% max, usually above 145 beats per minute.

Everyone’s different and you should check with your doctor and/or trainer if you want to specialized advice. Best thing I can say is stay active and use logic and your best judgment.