If you’re an avid skateboarder, you may have noticed that your midsection feels more toned and firm after a good skate session.
But can skateboarding give you abs? The answer is more complex than a yes or no.
This is because developing visible abs requires a combination of factors, such as a healthy diet and overall fitness routine.
Skateboarding can strengthen and tone your core muscles, comprising the abs, obliques, and lower back.
In addition to its potential for abs development, skateboarding offers a wide range of physical and mental benefits, such as improving balance, coordination, and creativity.
So, whether you’re looking to achieve a six-pack or simply want to improve your overall physical fitness, skateboarding can be a fun and engaging addition to your routine.
Read on to discover the relationship between skateboarding and abs development!
Can Skateboarding Give You Abs?
Can skateboarding give you abs? You can get abs by skateboarding since it uses the core muscles, which the abs comprise, for upper body strength and locomotion.
During the process, the fat stored in the tummy is converted into energy for skateboarding, revealing the abs after at least eight weeks of skating, depending on one’s body fat content.
Below I elaborate on the relationship between skateboarding and abs development.
You don’t want to miss out, so I urge you to keep reading!
Skateboarding and Abs Development
Skateboarding is a whole-body workout engaging various muscle groups, including the core muscles responsible for maintaining balance and stability.
While skateboarding is not a substitute for a comprehensive fitness routine, it can help develop abs, especially when combined with other exercises targeting the abs directly.
The specific muscles worked during skateboarding include the rectus abdominis, the external and internal obliques, and the transverse abdominis.
The rectus abdominis flexes the trunk and is commonly called the “six-pack” muscle.
The external and internal obliques rotate and flex the trunk, while the transverse abdominis helps stabilize the pelvis and lower back.
The biomechanics of skateboarding involves a combination of dynamic movements that engage the above muscles.
For instance, when performing an ollie, the skater has to contract the rectus abdominis to lift the front of the board off the ground.
At the same time, the external and internal obliques are responsible for twisting the body to initiate the jump.
When landing, the transverse abdominis contracts to stabilize the pelvis and lower back.
A study published in the Journal of Clarion Ledger blog found that skateboarding improved core stability and balance.
Undoubtedly, skateboarding can help develop abs for the following reasons. Here’s a quick summary!
- Skateboarding engages the core muscles responsible for maintaining balance and stability.
- Skateboarding requires constant adjustments to maintain balance while riding, engaging the core muscles, and helping to develop abs.
- Skateboarding involves a lot of twisting and turning, which further engages the obliques and helps to tone the waistline.
How to Maximize the Benefits of Skateboarding for Abs
Skateboarding is a fantastic way to move your body and engage your core muscles, leading to a more toned and defined midsection.
Here’s how to maximize the benefits of skateboarding for appealing abs!
1. Incorporate different tricks and styles of skateboarding
Skateboarding offers various tricks and styles to help you engage different muscles in your abs.
For example, doing kickflips and heelflips require a lot of core strength to maintain balance and control in the air.
Doing ollies can also help you engage your abs as you lift and balance on the board.
2. Vary the terrain and obstacles
Skateboarding on different terrain and obstacles can help you engage your abs differently.
For example, skating on a flat surface may engage your abs less than skating on a ramp or a bowl, which requires more balance and core strength.
Similarly, skating on obstacles such as rails and boxes can help you engage your abs as you balance and maneuver your board.
3. Maintain proper form and technique
Proper form and technique are crucial when maximizing the benefits of skateboarding for abs development.
Ensure you keep your core muscles engaged and your back straight as you skate.
Avoid slouching or hunching over your board, as this can lead to back pain and a lack of engagement in your abs.
4. Cross-training with other exercises
While skateboarding is an excellent way to engage your abs, it’s always a good idea to cross-train with other exercises to help strengthen your core muscles.
Exercises such as planks, sit-ups, and Russian twists can all help you build a stronger and more defined midsection, which will, in turn, help you improve your skateboarding skills.
5. Stay consistent and track progress
Like any exercise routine, consistency is key to maximizing the benefits of skateboarding for abs.
Set aside time to skate regularly, and track your progress over time.
This will help you stay motivated and focused on your goals and allow you to see the results of your hard work.
More Ways to Get Abs Fast
Getting abs can be challenging, but achieving those coveted six-pack abs is possible with the right approach.
In addition to traditional exercises such as crunches and planks, there are various other ways to get abs fast. Read on to find out!
Incorporate HIIT Workouts
High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is a great way to burn fat and build muscle.
By combining short bursts of intense exercise with rest periods, HIIT workouts can help you burn more calories in a shorter amount of time than traditional workouts.
This can lead to faster results in fat loss and abdominal muscle development.
Some HIIT workouts that target the abs include burpees, mountain climbers, and Russian twists.
Practice Yoga
Yoga is not only great for improving flexibility and reducing stress, but it can also help you develop stronger abs.
Many yoga poses require core engagement, which can help strengthen the abdominal muscles.
Some effective yoga poses for the abs include boat, plank, and downward-facing dog poses.
Practicing yoga regularly can improve posture, making your abs look more defined.
Try Boxing or Kickboxing
Boxing and kickboxing are high-intensity workouts that can help you burn calories and tone your muscles, including your abs.
These workouts involve a lot of twisting and turning movements that engage the core muscles.
Additionally, punching and kicking require a lot of power and force, which can help develop strong abs.
Boxing and kickboxing classes are widely available and can be a fun way to get a great workout while developing your abs.
Use Resistance Bands
Resistance bands are a versatile and affordable tool for working out.
They can be used to target various muscle groups, including the abs.
Adding resistance to your abdominal exercises can increase your workout’s intensity and promote muscle growth.
Some effective resistance band exercises for the abs include standing side bends, seated twists, and leg raises.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
While exercise is vital for developing abs, diet also plays a crucial role.
To see results, it’s essential to maintain a healthy diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates.
Foods such as eggs, lean meats, nuts, and vegetables can help fuel your workouts and promote muscle growth.
Additionally, drinking plenty of water can help flush out toxins and promote healthy digestion, which can help reduce bloating and reveal your abs.
