There's no controversy in saying that laughter is good for you, but can it actually help you build a six-pack?
A KILLER six-pack is one of the most coveted body types out there. There are tons of exercise routines purporting to help you get those toned abs, but let’s face it: working out takes effort.
Wouldn’t it be great if we could have our cake and eat it, too? In this case, how about getting a chiselled body without the pain, suffering, and upkeep that comes with it?
If you think back to the last time you laughed your head off at a particularly good comedy (or a particularly bad dad joke), you might recall how much your abs hurt afterwards. You may then have wondered if it might be possible to laugh your way to a six-pack.
Is this actually within the realm of possibility?
Verdict:
FALSE
And with that one line, many a dream was crushed.
Sorry, folks, if you want to see results, you need to put in the effort.
While laughing engages core muscles such as the abdominals, it is not strenuous enough to stimulate muscle growth.
It takes months of sustained effort to train your muscles because increasing muscle mass involves the process of breaking down and rebuilding the muscle fibres.
This is why it takes time to see gains, even when keeping up a dedicated workout routine.
In addition, nutrition also plays a huge role in building defined, chiselled abs.
Technically, we all have 'abs' – the term refers to a set of muscles located in our midsection between the ribs and internal organs.
Exercise helps define and tone the abdominal muscles, but the biggest underlying factor affecting ab visibility is body fat, hence the common saying that "six-packs are built in the kitchen."
No matter how much you work your core, your abs will only be visible across your stomach if you have a relatively low body fat percentage.
To this end, a diet consisting primarily of lean protein, fruits, and veggies, alongside targeted exercise, will help achieve a toned midriff.
Having discussed all that, it is important to remember not to work out solely to pursue a desirable physical appearance and to keep your overall well-being in mind.
Experts say that a nice-to-look-at body might not necessarily be the healthiest body; according to Healthline, the body fat percentages required for visible abs are often "well below those needed for optimal general health."
In addition, genetics play a role in how your body carries and stores fat, which means, as ironic as that might sound, a six-pack might not be achievable for some people without sacrificing their health.
Instead of striving to meet aesthetic goals, consider practising holistic wellness, which will last well into old age and ensure a long, healthy life.
This includes taking care of your mental well-being, towards which laughter is a great boon!
References:
1. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/best-ways-to-get-abs
2. https://fitday.com/fitness-articles/fitness/can-you-get-abs-from-coughing-or-laughing.html
4. https://www.insider.com/guides/health/fitness/how-to-get-abs
