THE TRUTH ABOUT SIX- PACKS

We give you the facts on how age and genetics change the terrain of your midriff

Are you looking for reassurance or a solution, Michael? A visible six-pack requires two things: less fat and more muscle. But genetics play a role too. “Two guys with the same body fat and fitness program rarely look exactly the same,” says Dr Christine Mermier, exercise scientist at the University of New Mexico. So maybe you don’t shed fat easily, or perhaps you’re just wired to store it around your belly. In which case blame your DNA, age, or just poor lighting. However, the truth is most men can get their abs to show if they’re in a calorie deficit and train hard. And don’t listen to 50% of PTS who say it’s all about body fat. Targeted abs moves – such as those in the manual accompanying this issue – will bulk-up your abs as if they were biceps. If they still don’t show, at least you now have the right excuses.