Crunches should be eliminated from our exercise program if your goal is to have ripped six pack abs. In order to have visible, tone and lean abs, we must focus on diet, increasing our metabolism and stress reduction.



Doing crunches develops different areas of the lower back and abs. Actually, some crunches train the hip flexors instead of the abs. Focusing on doing crunches may create imbalances in our back and, consequently, cause back pain.

Eating a diet balanced with protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins and minerals, can help us with attaining six pack abs. Eating more frequently, 5-6 meals per day can help us maintain our overall energy and help keep our blood sugar levels steady.

Resistance training increases our metabolism by increasing lean body mass, which increases the muscles' metabolic activity. Active muscles use up more fuel so our bodies can now use the excess body fat and convert that into fuel.

Interval training has also been shown to increase the body's metabolism. The body reacts to the increased demands of interval training, which causes an increase in lean body mass. The lean body mass then increases its overall fat burning capacity in order to fuel the increased activity level.

Stress has a way of increasing the amount of fat that is stored in our stomach area. In a stressful situation, our body releases Cortisol, which then stores fat in our abdomen. The stored fat is then kept there as a fuel source for the body during an emergency situation.

Reducing stress through meditation, deep breathing, relaxation techniques, tai chi and yoga are highly effective and can help us get toned abs.

Crunches need to be discussed. People should be informed that crunches are not effective in achieving six pack abs. Focusing on what we eat, increasing our metabolism and managing our stress are the main factors that will get you the six pack abs that you strive for.