Are abs really made in the kitchen?

Written by UniActive Fitness Trainer Ella Saunders

I do not think there is a single person that has not wanted abs at some point in their life.

However, for many it feels near impossible, training for hours each week but not getting any closer to seeing their desired ab results.

They say abs are made in the kitchen and truer words have never been spoken.

You can crunch and plank until the cows come home, but if your nutrition isn’t on point, those abs will remain in hibernation mode.

Embrace a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, and an abundance of veggies.

While crunches have their place, your body needs variety.

Integrate high-intensity interval training (HIIT) into your routine, as it torches calories and engages your core in ways traditional exercises might miss. Think burpees, mountain climbers, and plank variations – the kind of exercises that leave you puffed.

Cardio isn’t just for the heart, it’s a magical way to reveal those hidden abs. Incorporate cardiovascular exercises like running, cycling, dancing or whatever you enjoy into your routine. Cardio not only burns calories but also helps shed that layer covering your hard-earned six-pack.

Whilst it is important to continue incorporating crunches into your workouts, turn it up a notch. Add variations like bicycle crunches, reverse crunches, and vertical leg crunches to keep those ab muscles guessing.

I have also found that lifting heavy also improves your abs. To lift heavy in the gym, you constantly use your core to stabilise yourself and protect your body by bracing your core. If you are lifting consistently (with correct form), you would have a stronger core without even intentionally training it.

Water is the unsung hero of ab development. Staying adequately hydrated ensures your body functions optimally, aiding digestion and metabolism. Hydration helps transport nutrients to your muscles, making sure your abs receive the VIP treatment they deserve.

Abs are like any other muscle group – they need time to recover and grow. Ensure you’re getting enough sleep and rest allowing your body the chance to repair and regenerate. Quality sleep is the secret sauce that transforms sweat into abs.

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither are abs. Consistency is your key card to unlocking that chiselled core.

Stay committed to your workout routine and nutritional choices, and over time, you’ll see the transformation you’ve been working so hard for.

Finally, do not compare your journey to influencers you see online. There are other various factors that influence the development of abs such as genetics or the use of supplements or even photo editing.

In the epic journey toward six-pack supremacy, remember that everyone’s adventure is unique. What works for one might need tweaking for another.

Listen to your body, stay persistent, and enjoy the journey!