flattening abs - breathing question

T

Theresa

0
Hey everyone..I'm new here and am hoping someone can provide some guidance. I've been working out everyday for 20-30 minutes doing pilates and muscle conditioning with hand weights - switching things up for variety and even toning. I am pleased with the results everywhere except my abs. I have been battling my abs this year - and I know after having two kids they are harder to get back - but I feel like they may be developing outward instead of flattening. The videos/workouts I do always say to breath OUT when you are coming up and to pull the abs into the floor or lower back....I am trying to do this, but wonder if maybe I am still not doing it right...after at least a solid month of more concentrated workouts, I still have to consciously think about breathing out on the way up...is this typical or does anyone have any tips on making that process easier and more natural for me?

THANKS!!!!!
 
Sorry Theresa but I don't have the answer. I have the same question though. I do sit ups and still have a protruding belly and have though to myself, maybe I'm doing them wrong. Hopefully someone will respond.
 
diet would be the problem...breathe out on the way up for crunches etc...for regular exercises i would say breathe in during the hardest part although some might say the opposite...firstly though before each set breath all the way in and then let about 75% of the air out so abs / core is tensed...hold this position for the whole set taking passive smooth breaths so as not to "release" abs / core...this makes sure that the transverse abdominis is activated enabling you to lift more wt and lose a little extra around the waist line...enjoy!
 
thanks - that is very helpful, I definitely take full breaths now, so I will give it a try. I don't think diet is the issue (although I could be wrong:) - I eat well and am only 110lbs at 5'6"...it's just how it's disbursed, if you know what I mean:) hehe.
 
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