I know situps strengthen the abs but don't make the stomach flatter/smaller as it is the layer of fat ontop of the muscle that is the issue.
However, is there a gym machine that helps target the torso?
What is better for the stomach... rowing/biking/cross trainer/treadmill?
Also I do NOT want a smaller bum... is there any workout that reduces waist size/flattens stomach whilst keeping bum same size/bigger??
Thanks !! x
At the risk of being shouted at by the 'fitness trainers' I have found some exercises help develop the core more than others...and to get more defined abs you need to work the core rather than the abs per se:
- cardio burn helps lower the fat levels
- full body movements using weights strengthens the core - I'm not talking huge weights - 20+ pounds will do - and kettlebell swings; full body bar lifts, etc strengthen the core
- side planks, body planks, push ups, etc test the strength of the core
To avoid losing your butt:
- again, weight work with 20+ pounds doing step ups (onto a weight bench), squats, lunges, deadlifts, etc will build up the glute muscles which means you keep your butt however it'll have more muscle than fat
And none of this will work unless you maintain a healthy diet to feed the muscle - if you don't feed the muscle with protein then it's a waste of time - body can't build the muscle you are working hard for.
In effect you are changing your fat to muscle ratio rather than your overall body size - more muscle, less fat will give you a higher butt and better defined abs (even if your predisposition is to maintain more fat on the abs).
But it is a lot of work!
