If you want those cool washboard abs, you gotta work on your core and eat healthy. Guys need to have a body fat percentage of less than 10-14%, and gals need about 15-19% to see their abs. Keep your body fat low, do ab exercises regularly, and add some cardio to your routine.
In this article, we’ll talk about six ab exercises and other tips to help you get those awesome washboard abs.
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What does it mean to have washboard abs?
Having washboard abs means having a stomach with visible bumps that look like the ridges on an old-fashioned washboard used for laundry. These bumps come from a muscle called the rectus abdominis, which runs from your pubic bone to your breastbone and helps you bend your body and keep your spine stable.
Having strong abs not only looks good but also lowers your risk of getting hurt. It can also boost your athletic abilities, balance, and posture.
Washboard Abs vs Six-pack
“Washboard abs” and “six-pack abs” are basically the same thing—they describe a strong, defined core. However, they might look a bit different depending on your genes. Some folks naturally have the classic six-pack look, while others might have various ab muscles that still give them a flat, defined stomach.
Exercises for toned abs
Here are six exercises to help you get toned abs. You don’t have to stick to just these, though. Mixing it up can keep things fun and work different muscles too!
1. Flat Bench Leg Raise
- Lie on a flat bench.
- Hold the sides of the bench or grip it for balance.
- Lift your legs up until they’re at a 90-degree angle.
- Lower your legs slowly.
Aim for 2-3 sets of 10-20 reps.
2. Flutter Kicks
- Lie on a bench or soft surface.
- Place your hands beneath your glutes.
- Raise your legs to about 30 degrees.
- Flutter your feet up and down.
Aim for 2-3 sets of 15-20 reps.
3. Toe Reach
- Lie down with your arms and legs straight up.
- Crunch up and reach for your toes.
- Pause and return to start.
Aim for 2-3 sets of 10-20 reps.
4. Reverse Crunch
- Lie down with your knees bent and feet flat.
- Raise your knees toward your chest.
- Stop when your hips come off the ground.
Aim for 2-3 sets of 10-20 reps.
5. Bicycle Crunch
- Lie down with knees bent and hands behind your head.
- Lift your shoulders and twist one elbow to the opposite knee.
- Repeat on the other side.
Aim for 2-3 sets of 10-20 reps on each side.
6. Russian Twist
- Sit on a mat with your feet off the ground.
- Cross your hands over your chest.
- Twist to one side, then the other.
Aim for 2-3 sets of 10-20 reps on each side.
What other methods can aid in achieving washboard abs?
To get washboard abs, you need to lower your body fat so your muscles can show. Here’s how:
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Cardio: Doing activities like running, biking, or swimming helps burn calories and reduce belly fat. Aim for at least 30 minutes of cardio, 5 times a week.
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Healthy Eating: Focus on a balanced diet with lots of whole foods like fruits, veggies, and lean protein. Avoid sugary drinks, refined carbs, and processed foods.
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Sleep Well: Getting enough sleep (around 7 hours a night) is crucial. It helps regulate hormones and lets your body recover after workouts.
By combining cardio, healthy eating, and good sleep, you’ll be on your way to revealing those abs!
If you need more guidance, make an appointment with our online personal training.
FAQs
1. How should I eat for washboard abs?
To get washboard abs, the most important thing is to eat fewer calories than you burn to reduce body fat. Also, make sure to eat plenty of protein to help your ab muscles grow.
2. Can anyone get washboard abs?
Yes, anyone can get washboard abs with the right diet and exercise routine, but it takes commitment. You need to stick to a plan of eating fewer calories and exercising regularly, including cardio and mindful eating habits.
3. Are six-packs different from washboard abs?
A “six-pack” refers to six well-defined ab muscles, while “washboard abs” is a broader term for any well-defined core. They’re often used interchangeably, but some people may not naturally have the genetics for a six-pack while still achieving flat, defined washboard abs.
4. How To Get Washboard Abs Fast?
For quick results, try high-intensity interval training and targeted ab exercises recommended by a personal trainer. Combined with dietary changes, you may start to see results in 1 to 3 months of consistent training.