V-cut abs can be achieved through a combination of strong oblique and transverse abdominal muscles and a low percentage of body fat, allowing one to better see these muscles. These abs, shaped like the letter “V," begin around the outer waistline just above the hips and funnel inward, somewhat resembling the front of the pubic bone. Although some people may be genetically disposed to having visible V-cut abs, most who wish to get this look must follow a strict cardiovascular, strength-training program and diet plan.
Everybody has the abdominal muscles that create V-shaped abs, yet these muscles are not visible on most people. The V shape is created by the definition between various types of core muscles, and the way in which they are layered atop one another. V-cut abs mainly consist of the external obliques, located along the sides of the abdomen. Just underneath the external obliques are the internal obliques, and under those, the transverse abdominals, also known as lower abs. These three muscles are usually relatively small and are commonly hidden by fat deposits, even on people who are not considered overweight.
People who desire visible V-cut abs may be able to achieve them by first focusing on developing a regular cardiovascular workout routine. High-intensity cardio training is the fastest way to burn existing abdominal fat, which must be decreased in order to see the abs underneath. Many cardio workouts target core muscles, like running, stair climbing or rowing, among other activities, and could help some people reach this goal sooner.
Strength-training that involves weights and resistance to build abdominals will also help to form V-cut abs. Without proper cardio workouts and diet in conjunction with weight training, however, the opposite effect may result. Strength exercises increase the size of muscles when performed properly. While larger abdominals will make the V-shape easier to see, if body fat still lingers above the muscles, strength workouts will simply push the fat out further. Some athletes complain about a larger gut when they first begin resistance training.
Cutting fat from the diet will, therefore, be another helpful step to defining the V shape in the abdominals. Bodybuilders who strive for low body fat percentages often stick to a low-fat, high-protein diet made of small, frequent meals. Carbohydrates can help fuel workouts, but unused carbs are usually stored as fat. Thus, eating mostly vegetables and soy and animal proteins is commonly considered a healthy, quick way to drop body fat. It is important to understand that V-cut abs will be easier for some to achieve than others, and not everybody will easily get the results they want.