male only Exercise questions

Manatee · November 21, 2007

Hi guys

For those doing weight training, I have a question. I've been on a plateau for a while, and that's fine. One thing I've noticed though is that my belly area is actually starting to push outwards again. I asked my trainer about this, and he stated that it was because of increased muscle mass in the core areas below the abdominal fat layers.

Fact? Possible? Total BS? I don't think I'm eating badly right now

MARKADY · November 21, 2007

Hi My Name Is Mark And I Have A Question If You Don T Workout What Happens To The Extra Skin?/

Jachut · November 21, 2007

With abdominal work, I remember being told in aerobics classes way back in the 90's (I dont know how true this is) but you must be very careful to pull your belly button to your spine and not blow out your belly when you do crunches etc - I hope you can visualise what I mean, sometimes, you hold your breath and push out during the effort. Rather, try to hold your belly in very hard, pulling your navel towards your spin. If you dont do this, it can make your belly bulge, you're not getting max benefit from the exercises.

I dont quite understand HOW it could make your abdomen bulge out more, but that's what they used to say.

bobby_hamrick · November 24, 2007

I have gotten the same answer from personal trainers. Ive also changed my routine to fuctional training. No sitting exercises! Lunges, deadlifts, body squats, dips, pull ups, cardio. This is a new approach and I believe a break through for me. Ill let you know in a couple months.Im sor ein places I didnt know I had!

Jachut · November 24, 2007

I really agree with that, it much more reflects what I do. I hate weights, cant bear them unless its a machine, which I dont have access to at home. I much prefer to do push ups, squats, lunges, tricep dips etc and I've developed hard muscles as a result. Maybe not as good for sculpting but I have no real desire to look sculpted anyway.

Livingthe Dream · November 25, 2007

One thing I've noticed though is that my belly area is actually starting to push outwards again.

Hi Manatee,

That is a tough question but If I were in your shoes I would stop training the abs if that is what you are doing. I know that core training is important but if it is starting to bulge out then you have done enough. There is no way to exercise and target certain fat areas. For example you can do 1000 crunches a night and not get a 6 pack. You have never seen a guy with man boobs and a 6 pack. The reason is that you cant target an area for weight loss you only get total weight loss over the entire body which ends up giving you a better stomach.

As far as the plateau I would try to add squats to your routine. That is one of the best exercises because it fires up 200+ muscles in one movement. Make sure your routine changes completely every 4 to 6 weeks. If you are lifting weights now then you should be biking and swimming next month. Then after that hit a rock wall climbing or some outdoor hiking. Sorry I am rambling but you have to shock the body to avoid the plateau.