15 Apr How to build your core and get some abs!

Getting a 6 pack and building a strong core are actually two different things although putting them together will create a stomach to die for!

A 6 pack is your top layer of abs also called your rectus abdominals and despite what you think, this look comes from nutrition and lifestyle not 1000 crunches a day. A strong core however is the deeper abdominals muscle which is called your transverse abdominals and although it looks pretty sexy to have a 6 pack, having a strong core is more essential for every day movements.

Exercises to help build your core:

Multi functional movements such as pushups, pullups, lunge with a twist, plank, side plank, rows, squat and press, hip press and virtually any exercise performed on an exercise ball.

High intensity exercises such as sprints and stairs.

Foods to help show a 6 pack:

Berries, leafy greens, avocados, fish, olive oils, coconut oils, dark chocolate (yay!), full fat yogurt, look for less then 10 grams of sugar per 100 grams.

Stress:

Stress can be a massive prohibitor to weight loss. Those hormones such as cortisol and insulin are the biggest culprits when your tummy won’t shift. Time to shift your lifestyle and priorities if this is the case. Slow down a little, take some time out, do yoga, meditate, take an hour out to sit and just be, read a book, surf, go for a long walk. This is all going to help bring those levels back down which is going to bring you one step closer to a flat tummy (and also happier you).