Is Pilates a quick fix for flabby abs?

Preventative measures are always wisest when going through life. “Flabby abs” are the result of not keeping up with toning and strengthen exercises for the core region of the body which includes the abdmonials..  Pilates is known for strengthening the abdominal muscles. So let’s start there. 

There is no real quick fix for “flabby abs”. Pilates will help strengthen abdominal muscles from the deepest layer to the most superficial. From the deepest to outer layer we have the transverse abdominis, internal obliques, external obliques and rectus abdominis. All of these muscles make up the abdominal muscles. Just breathing in Pilates will help target the deepest layer of the abdominals. Abdominals are kept taught throughout while breathing in Pilates and on every exhale the abdominals tighten and “flatten” out. Actually, it is this deepest layer, the transverse abdominis that “flattens” out and is exercised on each exhale. Anytime the torso is rotated the internal and external obliques activate. Every time the pelvis is placed in an imprinted position the external obliques engage. Any time the spine is flexed the rectus abdominis works. Some exercises involve a combination of these movements resulting in more than one set of abdominal muscles working. Pilates exercises target one or more of the abdominal muscles. At the very least, breathing in the Pilates way will help get the deepest layer of the abdominals working which is a start to fixing “flabby abs”. The benefits of strong abdominals go far beyond fixing flabby abs. The following is just a short list of additional benefits of strong abdominals. Back pain relief Pelvic stability. Prenatal and postnatal women will benefit from maintaining activity and strength in the pelvic floor and deeper abdominal muscles areas. Abdominals protect internal organs. Strong abdominals provide greater protection.

Benefits of losing the “flabby abs”

Mention Pilates to most people and core strength, strong abs and improved posture are some of the comments people give. These are some of the benefits of Pilates. So what are the benefits of having strong abdominal muscles aside from the aesthetic reasons? 

Improved posture. Stronger and tighter abdominal muscles will help pull the stomach in making standing straight and upright easier. As a result your spine will be in a better position improving your posture. This will give the appearance of being taller and more confident. 

Less risk of lower back injury. Many people walk around with back pain. Most of it in the lower and mid back region. While many reasons for back pain exist, most of it is due to weak abdominal muscles and extra weight around the stomach. The body will naturally be in a better position taking pressure off of the back when fat is lost around the midsection and abdominal muscles are tightened. As a result, less risk of injury and less back pain. 

Less pressure on joints. Strong abdominal muscles can help stabilize your body. Increased stability means less pressure on the joints. This means fewer problems with injuries due to joint problems and less pain in the joints. 

Improved endurance and power. Stronger abdominals will help increase endurance and power for all sports and daily activities.  Less risk of hernias. A weak abdominal wall is one of the largest reasons for hernias. Strengthening the abdominal muscles will reduce the risk of developing a hernia. Decreased risk of developing heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. By working the abdominal muscles body fat is being burnt. The less body fat you have the lower your risk of developing these diseases.