Abs and Realistic Expectations

Charlotte's post earlier this week (or was it last week) about Abs and how to get em or how to accept that you won't get them was well grounded. I especially liked this Q&A:

Q: How do I get really defined/flat abs?

A: A combination of great genes and good eating. It is an oft-repeated axiom in the workout world that “abs are made in the kitchen” meaning that you can have the strongest abs in the world but you’ll never see them unless you lose the fat covering them up. For myself, I’ve found that my abs don’t show pretty much ever. Those of you that have read my book got to see pics but even at my lowest (and unhealthiest) body fat percentage, I still didn’t have visible abs. Other women have a six pack without even trying. Ah genetics, you strike again! The upshot is that how good your abs look pretty much has nothing to do with how you work them.

Q: Why should I bother with doing abs when I never see a difference?

A: I feel your pain, sister as I really don’t see changes in my abs either regardless of what I do. But our abs are about so much more than just looking good in a swimsuit. First, a strong core can help prevent back injuries and help heal existing back pain. Second, your core supports you in all of your other fitness endeavors – everything from running to weight lifting benefits from having a tight core.

If you don't already read her Blog the GreatFitnessExperiment I'd recommend you check it out. The entire article is here. Or those of you that live in #yyj I have her book and you're welcome to borrow it.

I'm working on my nutrition and making conscious choices about what I provide as fuel. I'm not perfect. I fall off the wagon at times. I had a half a glass of wine with Easter Dinner on Saturday and a bottle of cider on Sunday evening. These were splurges that ultimately weren't worth it. I'm all for drinking on occassion, but I think since I cut out the daily glass of wine I am better for it.

I still allow myself to have more treats than are really necessary and will continue to work on reminding myself that "food doesn't hug back." I am an emotional eater at times and when I am feeling guilty I deny myself food, its a rough roller coaster, but I'm getting better at navigating it.