MODS: ab questions

[Dana731]

I have always had pretty strong abs, and I know that working them out will only strengthen the muscle. I just started a high protein diet and weight training so I realize it will take time to lose the fat. My stomach is not very flabby, but even when I have gotten it pretty toned, I have always managed to have "the pooch" in my lower stomach. Are there any suggestions as to how to lose that? I want it gone for good. Also, how do I make the the muscles right above the hip bone (are they part of the obliques?) pop out? Are there any ab workouts that will focus on strengthening just those? Any other abs suggestions would be great!

 

[Bikini Mod]

You can't really isolate one part of the abdominal wall from the other, they all work synergistically. You don't need to do THOUSANDS of reps. It is enough to work your abs every other workout. BUT DO WEIGHTED AB WORK. It is enough to start off by supersetting 2 movements, 3 sets of 12-15 reps each, giving you a total of 6 sets - working your way up to 4 sets of each for 8 sets total.

Also, though it is NOT a weighted movement hanging leg raises are one of the most efficient movements that you can learn to master IMHO. I incorporate them AT LEAST every other ab workout. Hard as a MOFO at first, but you should be able to develop your strength fairly quickly in order to perform 3 sets of 12 -15 reps.

As for "the pooch" it is primarily genetically the way that your abs are shaped. Some people have convex others concave. I had "the pooch" even before I ever had a baby (so did my brother) and it only wasn't very prominent when my bodyfat was exceptionally low. Give yourself some time with a good diet, strengthening and growing your abs and you might be remarkably happy with the results.