Ab workouts

I am having a hard time trying to find out if you should work on abs all the time or not. Some say to work the abs constantly because it helps burn the fat (along with proper nutrition and other exercise) Other people say to not work the abs till you have shed the weight because that will only build muscle that pouches out the abs area.
PLEASE someone help me figure this one out.. because every time my friend and I do our normal cardio and weight lifting, (NOT focusing on abs), we both feel like our stomachs are smaller than normal... but when we DO ab workouts, we feel great that day because the muscles are worked and sore, but we also feel like our guts sticks out as if we were 5 months prego again!!! LOL
My friend and I work out daily, and only have 20 and 50 pounds left to loose till our goal weight. PLEASE HELP!!! WHAT DO WE DO!?!?!?

Replies

  • BigGuy47
    BigGuy47 Posts: 1,768 Member
    You're over thinking it. Continue to work out and watch your diet. Rinse and repeat until you reach your goal.
  • ninerbuff
    ninerbuff Posts: 48,990 Member
    Strong abs can be built from compound exercises like heavy squats, deadlifts and bent over rows. Abs are a muscle and like any other muscle can grow if nutrition and exercise is maximized.
    IMO, to keep from adding any extra muscle to the abs and obliques, when you train them directly, just use body weight and try to do some isometric movements (like planks) instead of weighted exercises.

    A.C.E. Certified Personal and Group Fitness Trainer
    IDEA Fitness member
    Kickboxing Certified Instructor
    Been in fitness for 28+ years and have studied kinesiology and nutrition
  • nova64
    nova64 Posts: 6 Member
    Thanks guys! I will take your advice and see what takes place over the next few weeks.