Toning sculpted abs may seem like an impossible task when trying to lose weight, but it may not be as difficult as you would expect. An expert has revealed this can be done by making six changes to your diet and exercise regime.
As well as losing a few pounds, most slimmers will want to tighten up their body.
For many, getting six pack abs is a dream that seems slightly unachievable.
Melissa Weldon, head trainer at London fitness boutique Sweat It, shared her simple tips on how anyone can carve a toned midriff.
She said: “Visible abs, a flat stomach and six packs are not built in four weeks. I’m sorry to burst your bubble.
“Unless you have been training consistently for a good six to 12 months and already have a fairly low body fat, it’s unlikely you will uncover your dream six pack in a short space of time.
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“However, all is not lost. Here are my six steps that will help get you get started on your journey to achieving a six pack.”
How to get flat abs
Build a strong foundation
Melissa said: “You can lose all the body fat in the world; if you haven’t built a strong core, no six pack will be revealed.
“A workout which covers the fundamentals of fitness; strength, cardio and mobility will make you stronger and fitter with the bonus of improving your metabolism and physique.”
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Follow a healthy diet plan
“Abs are built in the kitchen and the gym, so it’s essential your diet compliments your training,” Melissa added.
“I’m not going to tell you to cut all joy from your diet, that is not the route to long term success but look at your weekly habits and – where you can – improve.
“Your diet should be rich in protein, carbs and fats to both fuel you and aid recovery from your training. Add sprinkles of foods and drinks that you really enjoy, and you will be much less likely to ‘fall off the wagon’ and have a binge.”
Set fitness goals
The expert said: “Work towards fitness goals; run a 5k or an obstacle race, work towards lifting those bigger dumbbells, try out those intermediate speeds in the treadmill class you take.
“Always strive to be better than the person you were yesterday. The moment your focus shifts to getting better at fitness, you will find you start walking with a whole new swagger; you’ll be shocked at how getting fitter and stronger changes how you see yourself in the mirror.
“You might just start seeing the beginnings of that ‘beach body’ in a matter of weeks.”
Train with a friend
She said: “It’s very easy to back out of a workout when they only person you are accountable to is yourself. Less easy to let a friend down for that 7am class.”
Do what you enjoy
“If you don’t enjoy it, you won’t stick to it. Find a routine that fits your lifestyle and makes you feel good,” Melissa explained.
“You don’t need to keep up with whatever is popular on social media. Run your own race.”
Be patient
The trainer added: “There are no quick fixes. Focus on the long game, this will get you long term sustainable results.
“It is proven, that training consistently three to five times per week over a longer period yields better and long-term results than extreme dieting and training.”
