Almost every gym goer or fitness enthusiast dreams about getting washboard abs. After all, it is proof that you are strong, athletic and in shape. An important thing to bear in mind is that genetics play a vital role in the kind of abs you will have. Some people have 4 pack abs, while others have 6, 8 or even 10 pack abs. You are genetically predisposed to have a specific number of abs, but the good news is that 4 are really common.
You should note that your body fat percentage is also relevant because it will determine the visibility of your abs. Men have to have 15% body fat, while women need 20% body fat for 4 pack abs to show. Therefore, nutrition also plays a key role here, as you have to manage your diet to ensure you have the right fat percentage. Once you have done that, you can move onto the exercises that can help you achieve the 4 pack abs you want.
Cardiovascular exercises can come in handy, as these can reduce belly fat. These include swimming, cycling, jogging, running, skipping rope and boxing. Resistance training can be key for training for 4 pack abs. You have to work your muscles against some kind of resistance, whether dumbbells, gravity or bodyweight. Overhead press, bench press, deadlift, squat and pullups are some of the options you can explore.
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is also an excellent way of building strength and burning fat simultaneously. These exercises use large muscle groups, which can be quite beneficial. Engage in challenging exercises, such as Olympic lifts, burpees and cycle sprints for a specific time period and then rest briefly before repeating. This helps you in burning calories and also builds your strength, while adding muscle to your 4 pack abs.
