When a six-pack look is the desired outcome, more needs to be done to tone and strengthen that belly for optimum appearances (crunches are NOT helping this!). One of the most important things to not overlook when working out the abs are the “invisible muscles” that lie in this area.

Yes, that’s right – the invisible abdominal muscles. The transversus abdominis lies beneath the rectus abdominis, the six-pack muscle. This is the muscle that flattens the waistline when the gut is sucked in. Fail to work out this muscle with the same vigor that’s applied to the “six-pack” muscle and the overall look just won’t be the same.

So, how can people work out this muscle to get the desired results? It’s fairly simple. Just work it with the “vacuum.” This exercise is simple to do and can produce great results.

To get started, just pull the belly button toward the spine and hold for 10 seconds while breathing normally. Repeat five times.

When the vacuum combines with other ab exercises, the final outcome can be that tight tummy look so many people are after. Even so, there are other things that need to be done to support an improved abdominal appearance. They include:

  • Making a good diet a part of the routine – Muscle building does call for proper nutrition and so does weight loss. To support the desired results, be sure to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet every day. This means including lots of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and other healthy choices in the diet. It also calls for drinking plenty of water to support hydration and overall health. Overlook diet and fat-burning and that six-pack look might never materialize no matter how many crunches are done.
  • Work out other muscles – It’s never a good idea to focus solely on one muscle group. Even when a six-pack look is the desired outcome, it’s best to get the whole body up and moving. Consider a workout plan that involves both strength training and cardio for the best possible results. Cardio can help burn off fat and build endurance while strength training will also support weight loss while building the muscles necessary to produce a leaner, tighter look. To embark on a sound workout plan, consider consulting a trainer.

The “invisible muscles” matter when it’s time to create a six pack look. Support the overall look by making sure nutrition and full body workouts are also part of the plan.