Are six-pack abs really good for health?

Sculpted abs in men are more than just good looking

Strong abdominal muscles in a man are an indicator of good health. Developed abdominal muscles maintain posture, provide a “framework,” and relieve stress from the spine and lower back muscles. A strong abdominal wall supports the internal organs (stomach, intestines) in the correct position and contributes to their normal functioning.

The safety of the internal organs located in the lower abdomen is directly dependent on muscle tone. Unlike the organs of the upper body which are protected by the ribs, the organs of the lower abdomen are more vulnerable.

A flat belly without fat and cellulite is what a girl needs for her health

If for men a six-pack abs is great, for the fairer sex the situation is somewhat different due to differences in physiology, namely, in the pelvic diaphragms. 

For the stronger sex, lifting weights and repeating abdominal exercises many times are not dangerous - the pelvic floor is tightly lined with muscles. The male pelvic diaphragm is looped - the muscles are firmly connected to the fascia and form a tight muscle ring. Naturally, there is no cervix and no extension in the form of a vagina, so there is no danger of organ prolapse.

For girls, nature has provided a mechanism of child childbirth - there is an expansion in the pelvic diaphragm around the cervix, i.e. the internal organs (bladder, uterus, ovaries) do not have muscle support from below. And this is fraught with prolapse of internal organs.

In addition, in the case of abs of steel, the muscles become inelastic and squeeze the torso instead of supporting the internal organs. When the belly expands during pregnancy, the muscles can tear. In medicine, this is called diastasis or white line hernia.

What to do? Do girls really not need to work out their abs at home or in a fitness club? Sure, they need to!

But for women, the ideal option is not sculpted abs, but a flat, toned belly without cellulite and excess fat.

You can get this result by doing special exercises for abs, but without fanaticism. Moderate loads have a positive effect on the female reproductive system and function. 

Practical exercises

For abdominal focused training programs, check out our instructors below: Bonnie Lyall, Sophie Jones, Danielle Harrison.

The instructors clearly explain the nuances of performing abdominal exercises and illustratively demonstrate effective techniques.