The rectus abdominis is the long muscle that extends vertically along the length of your abdomen.
Although most well-known as the muscle that creates the appearance of the six-pack, it’s also necessary for breathing, coughing and bowel movements.
Other abdominal muscles include the internal and external obliques and the transverse abdominis.
Exercising these muscles is key to increasing muscle mass and achieving six-pack abs.
However, keep in mind that abdominal exercises alone are unlikely to decrease belly fat.
For example, one study found that doing abdominal exercises five days per week for six weeks had no effect on belly fat in 24 women.
Instead, be sure to pair your abdominal exercises with a healthy diet and regular cardio to boost fat burning and maximize results.
Abdominal crunches, bridges and planks are a few of the most popular exercises that can help strengthen your abdominal muscles and create the appearance of six-pack abs.
Athlete model – Brian DeCosta @briandecosta
