Professional models in fitness commercials, magazines, and other places have fantastic looking abs. The truth is, these kinds of abs are the result of a low body fat percentage. In many cases, it’s just temporary for them. They follow a hardcore diet just before a photo shoot. Between jobs they put a few pounds back on because such a low amount isn’t good for long term health. What you see is generally a 7-12% body fat percentage, depending on genetics and fitness routines. So, if you want ripped, sexy abs like models then you need low body fat. However, I would advise you to not be obsessed with that type of stomach. Even if your ab muscles aren’t popping out, you can still look very good and be healthy. Don’t fall for this gimmick.

The fat from your stomach is removed while reducing the fat on your body overall. Thus, anything that helps burn fat can provide improvements for your tummy. Although, the gut is usually the last place to release the blubber. This is why it’s important to have a healthy eating and exercise plan that you stick to for life. I know it seems odd, but doing exercises that don’t target your abs and eating well still helps you achieve a sweet midsection. I encourage you to get your protein from lean sources, consume ample fresh fruits and vegetables, and enjoy great snacks like nuts and regular popcorn. Also, try to move more often even if it’s just walking.

You can ‘cheat’ the system. While the basics never change, like needing a calorie deficit, there is some fudging you can do that makes things easier and more enjoyable. For example, if you’re having trouble with food consumption then eat filling snacks and foods which are also delicious. Lean protein is a good solution like fish and fowl (or soy if you avoid meat). My personal favorite is oatmeal which you can flavor with fruit, cinnamon, or even honey. Another trick is to pair calcium sources with your meals. The calcium in dairy products binds itself to fat, forcing it to pass through your body instead of being absorbed. This won’t save the day all by itself, but it will give you that needed edge in your battle.

You’ve probably seen ads for products or services that claim you can remove fat from just your belly. This is known as ‘spot reducing’. Without surgery, you cannot specifically remove fat from a particular location. Our bodies have a linear preference for storing fat. Fat is typically reduced in the reverse order. This is why you see men with big guts and why most women struggle with hips, thighs, and butt even if they’ve lost weight. If you hear someone claiming their abs gadget can remove your stomach fat (something that magically removes only your gut fat) you can rest assured that it isn’t true. Perhaps their product removes body fat in general, consequently reducing your stomach fat, but they usually don’t explain thoroughly.

Maybe you’ve heard that performing a ton of ab exercises everyday, like crunches, will give you a sexy stomach. This isn’t true. It’s not a good idea to strenuously work a group of muscles without breaks. This goes for any weight lifting (or body weight routines) in regards to muscles and your abs are muscles. In order to have a great tummy you don’t have to do ab exercises at all, but if you do then make sure to only focus on them three days per week at most. Having nice looking abs depends more on body fat percentage. If you’re carrying around several inches of flab over your stomach then no amount of abdominal exercises will help unless you remove the fat safely.

Some believe that surgery is the answer. Whether it’s stomach shrinking or liposuction, people want easy shortcuts and ‘professionals’ tell them it’s okay. While surgery may be necessary in a small number of instances, by and large it’s a terrible idea. If a person doesn’t make the necessary lifestyle changes then no amount of sucking and tucking will solve the problem. The fat will return and their overall health will remain poor. There’s more to looking sexy than just removing fat from your stomach. A healthy lifestyle will improve everything from attitude to complexion. It’s an overall boost that makes you attractive and gives you a nice, sexy tummy as a byproduct. Avoid risky, unnecessary procedures.