People are flaunting their buffed physique all over social media, especially their abs, which is a symbol of health, strength, and fitness since time immemorial. You may often find these people suggesting ab workouts and certain equipment that promises to give you a six-pack. But the question is, do ab workouts burn belly fat that much? If you are cranking at least a hundred sit-ups a day, thinking you'll end up like any of those social media personalities and still see no sign of abs popping, then you might be doing it all wrong.

What are Abs?

Your abdominal wall is comprised of the rectus abdominus, also known as the six-pack, the internal and external obliques that run alongside your rectus abdominus, and the transverse abdominus that is found underneath the internal oblique. These are the four main abdominal muscles or abs that promote movement and flexibility. Additionally, your abs function as a barrier that safeguards your internal organs.

Strengthening your midsection is vital for posture support, increased flexibility, and endurance. Ab workouts may strengthen your torso; however, it won't guarantee a visible six-pack.

Spot Reduction is a Myth

Do ab workouts burn belly fat? They do, but it's not as effective as you may think. Simply crunching away your belly fat to reveal a toned midriff is hardly possible. This method is known as spot reduction, which is a widespread misconception that you can lose fat by focusing in one particular area of your body.

Doing twists, sit-ups, crunches, and such is not the fastest way to achieve visible etched abs. If you have too much subcutaneous fat covering your abdominal area, then all the countless hours you spent doing midriff exercises are for naught. You can, however, stimulate and strengthen your abdominal muscles with these exercises.

How Do I Get My Abs to Grow?

Guides and advice from influential people are a dime a dozen nowadays, but do abs workout burn belly fat like they say? If you are planning on doing stomach exercises alone, then the answer is clearly no.

Ab workouts are just a step to get your abs to grow and make them stronger. The surest way to eliminate your belly bulge and reveal etched abs is by doing the following steps mentioned below.

1. Commit to Eating a Low-calorie Balanced Diet

Your food plays a major role in achieving a six-pack. Lesser calorie intake lowers your body fat percentage. Thus, you need to be smart in the kitchen. It is wise to consult your doctor first to determine the number of calories you need each day.

Put down greasy foods, carbonated drinks, and other unhealthy food choices. Refusing to eat at your favorite fast-food diner may be a challenge at first, but it will pay off eventually. Moreover, observe a complete and balanced diet. You may indulge in fruits and vegetables as these foods supply a wealth of health benefits in a meager amount of calories. Also, don't forget to drink plenty of water.

2. Up Your Protein and Fiber

Lean muscle mass loss is typical during low-calorie diets. Thus, it is critical to increase your protein intake, especially after a tough workout in the gym. Protein builds up lean muscle mass and boosts your metabolic rate. Beef, eggs, and cottage cheese are among the best lean-muscle building foods.

Likewise, make sure you get enough fiber. The more fiber you eat, the fewer calories your body absorbs. Fiber also prevents bloating. Snacking on almonds is a good way to get a dose of both protein and fiber.

3. Cut Back on Processed Sugar and Refined Carbohydrates

A good rule of thumb is to cut back on your favorite comfort foods, such as pizza, cookies, and ice cream. Apart from having little nutritional value, these foods digest quickly, leaving you hungrier and craving for more food. In addition, processed sugar and refined carbohydrates have been linked to a number of health issues including obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

4. Try Aerobic Exercises

Aerobic exercises give you a burst of energy and revitalize your metabolism in a more enjoyable manner. Popular options include:

• Running

The most primal form of exercise for the whole body is running. Your abdominal muscles are stimulated during the strike of each leg, making it one of the simplest aerobic exercise to lose fat.

• Walking

Walking is easy on the joints and can be used as a preliminary to running. Spending at least more than 10-20 minutes walking each day would be ideal. You will also get to enjoy your surroundings as you walk.

• Swimming

Swimming is an incredible complete body workout as water provides a natural resistance to the whole body. It even promotes continued expenditure of calories, even if you are at rest. Cycling - Apart from saving fuel, cycling is an excellent fat-burning exercise that is fun and easy on the joints.

Getting defined abs is no easy feat, and aerobic exercises will only bring you so far. To maximize the burn, you need to pair aerobic exercises with resistance training.

5. Intensify Your Exercises

Resistance training is a must to better address your midsection. Also known as strength or weight training, it involves exercises that use different forms of resistance including free weights, weight machines, medicine balls, resistance bands, and your own body weight.

Resistance training builds muscle, tendon, and ligament strength, improves bone density and joint function, promotes balance, and enhances heart and lung fitness among other benefits. A beginner needs to train at least two to three times per week to gain the maximum benefit.

Final Thoughts

Do ab workouts burn belly fat? Ab workouts alone will only get you so far. To get rid of a bulging belly and reveal a marvelous midriff, you also need to change your food choices and your lifestyle. Start with an effective resistance training program and a healthy diet as soon as possible. If you wish to have abs that will last for much longer than a few weeks, remain consistent. Consistency is a huge piece of the six-pack puzzle. After all, being fit requires discipline and determination.