Every year around the holiday season, everyone seems to pack on a few extra pounds at parties and dinners. I am no exception to this. Remember that once the holiday festivities end, you'll need to log in some more time at the gym to burn off those extra pounds. This may prove a bit more difficult to accomplish during the cold winter months when getting around may be more difficult due to poor weather conditions which may translate into decreased physical activity. So keep this in mind before you overindulge yourself, and that midsection you worked so hard for in the warm summer months is covered by a layer of fat.
We've all witnessed the intense gym regular who sports well developed, showy body parts such as arms and chest, but has a sub-par and neglected midsection. When you look at them, it is almost impossible not to focus on their abs. They just seem to attract all the attention. Isn't it amazing how one area of the body can have such an overwhelming impact on a physique? I'll be the first to admit that ab work isn't always fun, but it is definitely a necessity. In addition to the obvious visual benefits, ab work is a integral part of the core training regiment, which is beneficial to your entire body.
Another example of how a poor midsection can ruin someone's look is evident in the massive, big-bellied bodybuilders of today. What does the audience notice when they walk out on stage? Their midsection of course. Their individual body parts may be extremely impressive and well-developed, but if their midsection is large and bloated it becomes a focal point. This ultimately draws all the attention away from the rest of their physique.
On the other hand, we've all seen the thin, lean type with minimal muscular development who has a well-defined or ripped 6-pack. People recognize that. Needless to say, this person looks like they are in tremendous shape. This is especially true in comparison to the aforementioned bodybuilder who is lacking in the stomach area. This way of thinking goes all the way back to ancient times where the stone statues from the Greek and Roman eras all had a well developed and an eye-catching midsection. The visual impact of great abs was definitely not lost to these sculptors from 20+ centuries ago!
It really doesn't take that much to give your abs a good, solid workout at the gym. 5 to 10 minutes a day, 6 to 8 total sets, and 200 to 300 repetitions should do the trick. Many regulars even work their abs first as a warm-up prior to their heavy lifting. Steady, consistent ab work coupled with a healthy diet high in protein, and a low to moderate intake of carbohydrates and fat will give you the six-pack you crave. You will then be able to enjoy those looks of envy from your peers at the gym.
Visit Unique Fitness Concepts for more training advise, tips, and equipment.
