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Using calipers differently (I just want a 6 pack)

asarghmatey
asarghmatey Posts: 4
edited March 3 in Health and Weight Loss
The are all these formulas and methods about how to use calipers to get the most accurate BF%. The thing is, I don't really care about my BF%, I just want a 6 pack.

It seems like it would make more sense to have a reliable measurement goal on the calipers themselves. Obviously, if I can pinch an inch, I won't see abs.

Right now my calipers are registering about 7 or 8 millimeters next to my belly button (granted that I'm using very cheap calipers), and I still don't have a 6 pack.

I would think that there would be a consistent expectation for caliper measurements vs abs aside from BF%. If so, what should I be shooting for?

Part of my reason for asking, is that I suspect that my abb muscles may just not be big enough to create that 6-pack look, and I don't want to waste my time continuing to cut if that is the case.

Thanks in advance for your help

Replies

  • Chrisparadise579
    Chrisparadise579 Posts: 411 Member
    Im gonna need some more information to help accurately, like how long have you been cutting, how long have you been working out, what your calories and macros, etc. but usually you will start seeing abs at 8% and a great six pack at 6%
  • yopeeps025
    yopeeps025 Posts: 8,680 Member
    Keep losing fat til you see your six pack. Problem solved.
  • Aaron_K123
    Aaron_K123 Posts: 7,122 Member
    If you buy 5 more calipers and tighten the springs then use each caliper to pinch together the flesh on either side of your body in three rows you will totally have a 6 pack.

    Other than that its just a matter of building muscle in that region (think deadlifts over crunches) and losing the covering fat which can be a long process.
  • asarghmatey
    asarghmatey Posts: 4
    Thanks for the replies.

    I understand the mechanics behind how to get a 6 pack. What I don't understand is why there is not an expectation for a calipers measurements in relation to visible abs.

    I doubt that BF% is the most accurate, because everyone stores fat differently. Also, one could carry water weight that would add girth, and make the abs disappear.

    Another way to answer my question would be to measure your own skin fold (assuming you have a six pack) right by your belly buton, and let me know what you get.

    If anyone could do this for me, I would be super appreciative.

    Thanks again
  • Chevy_Quest
    Chevy_Quest Posts: 2,012 Member
    There is no correlation between caliper measurements being a direct predictive indicator for when you will see abs. It basically is getting your bodyfat down to the levels that were mentioned above. It doesn't matter if the abdominal muscles are developed heavily or not. They will show.
This discussion has been closed.

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