Pilates for Flat Abs – Does it really work?
Doing Pilates exercises for flat abs is a very powerful method for getting the midsection you want fast. In fact, it’s much more effective than the ever popular jogging.
Then why all the negativity about Pilates online?
Most of the people who don’t get results try it for a few weeks, and then give up when it doesn’t seem to be working.
In most cases you may not see anything happen to your outer body to start but rest assure if done correctly your body is changing on the inside. With consistent use you can see outer results within 1 to 3 months.
Pilates not only helps you strengthen your back and use proper posture, it’s one of the fastest ways to burn stomach fat.
Why?
Because these exercises are all about developing core body strength. This is important for giving your whole body the foundation it needs. Without a powerful midsection you can’t have very strong arm or leg muscles either.
Word of caution: you need to do the workouts the right way if you want results. In order to do that, you have to pull your abs inwards when exercising.
Why?
Because if you push them outward, you are actually contracting the abs. This could still give you more strength, but it will not result in a flat midsection.
So what are the best Pilates exercises?
There are absolutely tons of Pilates exercises so deciding this can be hard. To make it easier, here are two you can start with:
The hundred
Start in the classic crunch position, except that your arms should be at your sides instead of behind your head. Avoid curving you back.
You’ll want to bring your knees into your stomach, and make sure not to relax your abs muscles during this. From there, lift your neck and bring your head down so that you are viewing your stomach.
Then raise your arms slightly, but don’t go farther than you are able. Some people might not be able to go more than 3 inches—that’s okay. Proceed to raise and lower your arms five to ten times. The stronger you get, the more repetitions you will be able to handle.
Crisscross
Again, assume the classic crunch position. Then slowly raise your head and shoulders above the mat. Lift your knees towards your midsection and keep your hands in back of your head to stay steady.
Gradually turn to the right side, pushing your left elbow in close enough to touch your opposite knee. At the same time straighten your left leg. Then return to the original position and do the same movement on the other side.
Why are these exercises so effective?
Because they target the deeper abs muscles, which is important for losing as much fat as possible.
The abs have three sections: the internal obliques, external obliques, and rectus abdominis. The rectus abdominis is the deepest muscle, and that’s what these exercises target.
