Most people think of a flat stomach as something that will help them look their best. Many of us don’t even get serious about flattening our stomachs until we’re faced with a life event like a high school reunion or a re-entry into the dating world, when we find ourselves feeling we should improve how we look. But appearances aren’t the only – or best – reason to work out the stomach muscles. And whether you actually achieve a flat stomach or not isn’t as important as that you strengthen those core muscles.
What a strong core does for you
For reasons not entirely understood, belly fat is associated with diabetes and other medical conditions more than excess weight carried elsewhere (such as hips or thighs). Working out the stomach muscles does not in itself get rid of belly fat – you also need cardio exercise to burn off the fat calories – but as part of a workout routine, it helps. Additionally, every pound of muscle you build burns a few more calories, raising your resting metabolism higher.
The reason the abdomen is often referred to as the “core” is because it’s the core muscle group of the body. The stronger it is, the stronger the rest of you is likely to be. A strong core creates a strong back, preventing back problems and strengthening back muscles against injuries and strains. Workouts to strengthen your core help improve your posture, which in turn relieves a great deal of stress on the spine. A strong abdomen also enables you to walk with better posture, which increases how confident you look, which can increase how confident you feel.
Convenience
One of the best things about stomach exercises is how easy they are to do, almost anywhere, anytime. You don’t need to go to a gym. You can do them while watching TV. You can do a few here and there, scattered throughout a busy rush-rush day. You may even find them fun (I do). Anytime you need to burn a few calories, but it’s not convenient or possible to get to the gym or go outside for a jog, stomach exercises will help. Additionally, if you have a problem with over-eating, try doing crunches whenever you want to eat something and know you shouldn’t eat yet. It’s easier to say no to food when your abdomen is feeling the effects of a workout.
