Viral Lower Abs Routine Trending
A lower abs routine is buzzing overseas with users reporting 'super flat stomachs, loose pants after 2 weeks,' and visible ab lines. The viral workout comes with muscle soreness warnings as people push through the intense routine. Social media is flooded with before/after posts and technique demonstrations.
The viral routine is often referred to as the Japanese towel method. It was developed by Japanese reflexology and massage specialist Dr. Toshiki Fukutsudzi over a decade ago. The primary goal of his method was to help with lower back pain and improve posture by correcting spinal alignment. The exercise involves lying on your back with a rolled-up towel placed under your lower back, just below your navel. For five minutes, you are instructed to stretch your arms above your head with your palms down and pinkies touching, while your legs are straight and your big toes are touching. Dr. Fukutsudzi claimed this could help reduce belly fat by correcting the placement of the pelvic muscles. While social media is filled with claims of flat stomachs in as little as 10 days, experts are skeptical about its effectiveness for weight loss. They suggest that while the stretch may help with body alignment and posture, it is not a method for burning fat or building abdominal muscles. The muscle soreness reported by users is likely due to the intense stretching of muscles that are not regularly used. Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) is a normal response to new or intense exercise and typically peaks 24 to 48 hours after the activity. For those experiencing severe or prolonged pain, it is recommended to reduce the intensity or duration of the exercise.
