How To Get A V Cut: 12 Steps (with Pictures) - WikiHow
Maybe your like
- Log in / Sign up
- Best Lower Ab Workouts for V-Lines |
- Diet & Nutrition Advice |
- Can cardio help you get a V-cut? |
- Can everyone get a V-line? |
- When to Hire a Trainer |
- V-Tapers vs. V-Cuts |
- Video |
- Expert Q&A
This article was co-authored by Alphonso White and by wikiHow staff writer, Aly Rusciano. Alphonso White is a Certified Personal Trainer and Fitness Coach at CompleteBody in New York City. With over 20 years of experience in the personal fitness industry, Alphonso specializes in fat loss, toning, and functional training. As an ACE Certified Personal Trainer (ACE-CPT), he creates structured, personal workout plans geared towards short and long-term fitness goals. Alphonso also holds a BS in Nutrition and Exercise Science from Queens College and is a Black Belt in Seido Karate. There are 18 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 4,040,573 times.
You’ve seen them all over social media and at the gym—those defined “V” shaped muscles right above the pelvis. These are known as V-cuts or V-lines and they’re a common goal for gym-lovers. But how can you get them yourself? In this guide, we’ll teach you how to get a V-cut with exercise and diet changes.
How do you get a V-Line?
To get a V-line, complete workouts that target your lower abs. Try leg lifts, hanging leg raises, reverse crunches, and other exercises that work out your lower stomach. Combine these exercises with cardio and a nutritious diet in order to cut body fat and achieve your fitness goals faster.
Steps
Section 1 of 6:The 7 Best Lower Ab Exercises to Get a V-Cut
-
1 Leg lifts The rectus abdominis (your “six-pack” muscle) stretches from the bottom of your chest down to your pelvis.[1] Though many work out the upper and middle portions of this muscle with sit-ups and crunches, for a defined V-cut, it’s best to include workouts that hit the lower abs as well. Leg lifts exercise builds lower ab strength by forcing your abdominal muscles to raise your hips and legs off of the ground in a vertical column. To do this exercise:[2] - Begin by lying flat on your back. Put your palms face-down at your sides.
- Lift your legs off the ground to point straight up towards the ceiling. Your body should form an “L” shape.
- Concentrating on using your lower ab muscles, bring your legs down (while keeping them straight). Hold for a second, then bring them back up.
- Do this exercise until you feel the burn or for 4 sets of 15 reps.
-
2 Hanging leg raises This powerful exercise requires suspending yourself from a chin-up bar. In addition to building your lower abs, hanging leg raises can also increase your grip strength. To do hanging leg raises, according to personal trainer Alphonso White:[3]
- Hang beneath a chin-up bar or another sturdy horizontal bar. Use a medium-wide grip. Point your body straight towards the ground, with your hips very slightly rolled back.
- Raise your legs, knees bent, until your thighs make a 90-degree (L-shaped) angle with your torso. Hold this shape for a second, then gently lower your legs back to their starting position. Avoid twisting, jerking, or swinging your feet.
- Repeat the exercise until you feel the bur or for about 3 to 4 sets of 10 to 20 reps.
-
3 Reverse crunches This fairly simple lower ab exercise is an excellent addition to any ab workout. Plus, you can even add weight between your feet to make it more challenging. To do reverse crunches:[4]
- Begin by lying on your back with your legs raised in a “tabletop” position with your legs raised and knees bent.
- Spread your arms wide with your palms touching the ground.
- Keeping your upper back still, use your lower abs to lift your hips off the floor. Bring your knees towards your chest.
- Hold this position for a second, then gently lower your hips towards the ground.
- Repeat until you feel the burn or for several sets of 12 to 20 reps.
-
4 V hold The V hold requires you to balance in a position that activates your lower abs. The longer you hold the position, the stronger the burn will feel. To do this exercise:[5]
- Lay flat on your back.
- With both hands at your side, raise both legs and your torso about 45 degrees off the floor to form a “V” shape with your body. If necessary, bend your knees to make the exercise easier.
- Brace your ab muscles and use your arms for balance. Some people find it easier to balance if they extend their arms parallel to the floor, pointing in the direction of their legs.
- Hold this position until you feel the burn, usually about 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Repeat as needed.
Monica Morris
ACE Certified Personal Trainer Monica Morris is an ACE (American Council on Exercise) Certified Personal Trainer based in the San Francisco Bay Area. With over 15 years of fitness training experience, Monica started her own physical training practice and gained her ACE Certification in 2017. Her workouts emphasize proper warm-ups, cool-downs, and stretching techniques.
Monica Morris ACE Certified Personal Trainer Try doing a V hold in a chair. Scoot forward to the edge of the chair, then put your legs together. Lean back and grab onto the chair while you lift your legs up. Keeping your legs straight, bring your feet up toward the ceiling so they're 6–12 inches (15–30 cm) above the floor.
-
5 Side crunches Side crunches modify traditional crunches to target your obliques and central ab muscles. To perform this exercise:[6] - Lay on your side. Cross your top foot over your bottom foot. Place your top hand behind your head and the hand of the arm you’re lying on at your waist.
- Use your side muscles to lift your shoulder off the ground.
- Continue on one side until you feel the burn, then repeat on the other.
-
6 Bridge pose Bridge pose helps strengthen your lower back without putting too much pressure on it. This exercise also targets your core, which can help improve your overall physique and ab strength. Here’s how to do a bridge:[7] - Lay on your back with your feet on the ground and your hands at your sides.
- Tighten your core and lift your hips up.
- Hold the pose for 3 to 5 seconds, then slowly lower down.
- Repeat, completing 3 sets of 10 to 12 reps.
-
7 Lunges Lunges help strengthen your hips and legs, which are essential to improving your core strength. This exercise is fairly simple and only requires a few steps. Plus, it’s versatile and can be made more challenging by holding weights in your hands. Here’s how to do lunges:[8] - Stand up straight with your feet together.
- Step forward with one foot.
- Lower at the hips until you create two 90-degree angles with your legs, bending at the knees.
- Focus your weight on your front foot and push back up to your starting stance.
- Alternate between your legs until you feel the burn.
Advertisement
Diet & Nutrition for a V-Cut
-
1 The best diet for a V-cut is healthy and lean. Having a healthy diet is key to achieving your fitness goals. Even the strongest, most well-developed ab muscles are invisible if they’re buried under fat, so focus on eating foods that’ll help you lose body fat. Aim to eat in a calorie deficit (eating fewer calories than you burn a day) while also giving your body the fuel it needs.[9] Here are some diet and nutrition tips to get you started:[10] - Eat fewer sugary, fatty foods. Eliminate desserts from your diet, except for rare indulgences.
- Eat lean, filling protein. Chicken breasts, fish, leaner cuts of red meat, low-fat dairy, nuts, and seeds are all excellent options.
- Eat fresh fruits and vegetables. Experts recommend eating at least 4 servings of vegetables and 3 servings of fruit a day.[11]
- Eat sensible amounts of carbohydrates. Opt for healthier, more filling whole-wheat varieties of bread and nutritious starch products, like brown rice and whole-wheat pasta.
- Know that your diet shouldn’t leave you starving. Everyone needs to eat, and depriving yourself can only set you back on your goals. If you’re worried about what’s best and healthy for your body, talk to your doctor for extra guidance.[12]
-
2 Drink lots of water. If you’re exercising more often and focusing on burning fat, drinking more water is a priority. Staying well-hydrated has been proven to aid muscle fatigue and improve performance.[13] Similarly, swapping out sugary or high-calorie drinks with a glass of water can also help you lose stubborn belly fat and improve the appearance of abs.[14] - How much water should you drink a day? Experts say at least 12.5 c (3.0 L) for men and 9 c (2.1 L) for women.[15]
Advertisement
Can cardio help you get a V-cut?
-
Yes, cardio could help you burn fat and get a V-cut. Cardio is a great way to burn calories and improve overall health. It can lower your heart rate, improve blood flow, increase energy levels, and boost positivity.[16] While cardio exercise might not specifically target the muscles to achieve a V-cut, adding it to your regular workout routine may help you see results faster.[17]
- Go for a jog, hike, swim, or walk around the neighborhood to get your daily dose of cardio.
- Stagger your cardio exercise with strength exercise to get the most out of your fitness routine.[18]
Can everyone get a V-line?
-
Anyone can get a V-line, but it may be easier for some due to genetics. Genetics can play an important role in whether or not you have a visibly defined V-cut. Some people may find it challenging to lose belly fat and achieve a chiseled physique, while others don’t. This isn’t because those people are doing anything wrong; it has to do with how their body is formed. Genetically, they might have thicker skin around their abdomen or uneven ab muscles. This doesn’t mean they can’t get a V-line, but they have to work harder for it.[19] - So, if you’re struggling to get a V-cut, don’t worry! Stay consistent and be patient. Your anatomy and genetics may make achieving the figure of your dreams more difficult, but it doesn’t mean it’s impossible.
Advertisement
When to Hire a Professional Trainer
-
There’s no shame in asking for help, especially if you’re new to the fitness world! Reach out to a personal trainer or fitness professional for personalized help making an exercise and/or diet plan. They can also help you set and achieve goals based on your wants and needs. - Head to your local gym and sign up for a membership. Many gyms offer on-site trainers and classes.
- Know a friend that’s into fitness? Ask them to help be your guide on your V-cut journey.
- Find a fitness pro in your area using ACE Fitness’s search feature.
V-Tapers vs. V-Cuts
-
A V-taper is a full-body physique, while a V-cut is an abdominal physique. A V-taper is a full-body physique where the shoulders are broad and the waist is narrow, creating an overall “V” shape. The broad shoulders, developed back, and tight waist creates a muscular appearance many fitness enthusiasts seek.[20] A V-cut is a muscular indentation between the obliques and transversus abdominis muscles. This is centered around the abs and creates a “V” line at the bottom of the torso.[21] - It’s possible to have a V-taper physique and V-cut at the same time, especially as a V-cut doesn’t broaden the waist.
Advertisement
Expert Q&A
Search Add New Question- Question What exercises help develop this?
Michele Dolan Certified Fitness Trainer Michele Dolan is a Fitness Trainer based in Sidney, British Columbia. She has been a personal trainer and fitness instructor since 2002, and was certified as a Personal Trainer by the British Columbia Recreation and Parks Association (BCRPA). Michele is also a Registered Clinical Counselor, and uses her 20+ years of fitness coaching experience to help clients understand their mind-body connection. She is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and Certified Clinical Counsellor (CCC), certified by the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors and the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. In her work, Michele uses the tools of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy for Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome. She practices and teaches mindfulness and acceptance in all of her coaching work. She holds a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology.
Michele Dolan Certified Fitness Trainer Expert Answer Perform the exercises described in this article, and you will have the V. However, you may or may not be able to see it, depending on whether or not you have any body fat around your waist. To actually see the six-pack abs, you must have a very low BMI - probably below 20. That means, losing fat, eating leaner, and exercising more. The advice in this article is all you need. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 43 Helpful 75 - Question How do I get six pack abs?
Michele Dolan Certified Fitness Trainer Michele Dolan is a Fitness Trainer based in Sidney, British Columbia. She has been a personal trainer and fitness instructor since 2002, and was certified as a Personal Trainer by the British Columbia Recreation and Parks Association (BCRPA). Michele is also a Registered Clinical Counselor, and uses her 20+ years of fitness coaching experience to help clients understand their mind-body connection. She is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and Certified Clinical Counsellor (CCC), certified by the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors and the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. In her work, Michele uses the tools of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy for Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome. She practices and teaches mindfulness and acceptance in all of her coaching work. She holds a Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology.
Michele Dolan Certified Fitness Trainer Expert Answer The real trick to having six-pack abs is to have a VERY low body fat percentage. Check your BMI. If it is 25 or higher, you may have six pack abs, but you just cannot see them below the layer between your muscle and your skin. This layer is usually fat. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 39 Helpful 68 - Question Can a 14 year old do this?
Community Answer Yes, a 14-year old can do this. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 32 Helpful 176
Video
Tips
- Raise your overall activity level to help you lose weight. This can be as simple as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or parking farther away from a store. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Warnings
- Do not do advanced weight routines alone. Some routines may cause injury, and "spotters" should be present. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
You Might Also Like
References
- ↑ http://www.meddean.luc.edu/lumen/MedEd/grossanatomy/dissector/muscles/reca.htm
- ↑ https://youtu.be/JB2oyawG9KI?t=22
- ↑ Alphonso White. Certified Personal Trainer, CompleteBody NYC. Expert Interview
- ↑ https://youtu.be/hyv14e2QDq0?t=16
- ↑ https://youtu.be/WGwI629aTAY?t=4
- ↑ https://youtu.be/w0OWFjfI3zM?t=2
- ↑ https://youtu.be/_leI4qFfPVw?t=7
- ↑ https://youtu.be/ASdqJoDPMHA?t=7
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/calorie-deficit
- ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/weight-loss/art-20048466
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/weight-loss/in-depth/weight-loss/art-20047752
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/calorie-deficit
- ↑ https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/does-drinking-water-before-meals-really-help-you-lose-weight-202402203018
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/tips-for-losing-belly-fat
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-much-water-do-you-need-daily
- ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/aerobic-exercise/ART-20045541
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/tips-for-losing-belly-fat
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/weight-loss/in-depth/weight-loss/art-20047752
- ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24147-visceral-fat
- ↑ https://gunsmithfitness.com/blogs/news/how-to-build-a-v-taper-physique
- ↑ https://girlletsglow.com/fitness/v-lines/
About This Article
To get V-cut abs, hit your lower core with 10-20 reps of leg lifts, hanging leg raises and reverse crunches every day. Mix in overall core exercises like side crunches and planks, as well as strength moves like bridges and lunges to balance out your overall look. To cut body fat, fill your diet with lean, satisfying protein like chicken breasts and low-fat dairy, plus plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and at least 8 fluid ounces of water a day. Burn calories by running, swimming, or riding a bike to boost your metabolism and get faster results. For tips from our Personal Trainer reviewer, including how resistance training might help with definition, read on! Did this summary help you?YesNo
In other languages Spanish German Portuguese Italian Dutch Chinese French Russian Arabic Vietnamese Thai Hindi Czech Japanese- Send fan mail to authors
Reader Success Stories
-
Imran Ayub
Sep 27, 2016
"This article helped me lot. I'm doing my workout in my room, and it's amazing! I suggested to my friend, he also found it cool. Thanks for this page!"..." more
Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy.Imran Ayub
Sep 27, 2016
"This article helped me lot. I'm doing my workout in my room, and it's amazing! I suggested to my friend, he also found it cool. Thanks for this page!"..." moreHafiz Hayat Pakistan
May 21, 2017
"This is very helpful for a person who has not enough time to consult the expert. It is handy at home or office. Thanks."..." moreChris Paul
Oct 6, 2016
"I am 54, this well-written and contained information is correct. Too many "health gurus" present false information."..." moreK. Daniels
Apr 11, 2016
"This helped and encouraged me by being able to actually see the routines (form, number of times, etc). Thank you!"Jess Lars
Oct 9, 2016
"I have been working out using a strong diet regiment and with these tips I've never felt better in my life." Share yours! More success stories Hide success storiesQuizzes & Games
You Might Also Like
Featured Articles
Trending Articles
Featured Articles
Featured Articles
Watch Articles
Trending Articles
Quizzes & Games
- Categories
- Sports and Fitness
- Personal Fitness
- Building Muscle & Strength
- Upper Body Strengthening and Toning
- Home
- About wikiHow
- Experts
- Jobs
- Contact Us
- Site Map
- Terms of Use
- Privacy Policy
- Do Not Sell or Share My Info
- Not Selling Info
- Contribute
Follow Us
×Get all the best how-tos!
Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter
Subscribe You're all set! X --Tag » How To Get A Vline
-
V-Cut Abs: 10 Exercises, Genetics, Diet, And More - Healthline
-
How To Get “V” Cut Abs (NO BULLSH*T!) - YouTube
-
How To Get V-Line Abs - AskMen
-
5 Moves To Get The Abdominal V-shape You've Always Wanted
-
The 'Sex Lines' Workout To Build An Abdominal 'V' | Men's Journal
-
The Absolute Best Method For Acquiring V-line Abs? : R/Fitness - Reddit
-
7 Tips For Forming V-Line Abs ... - Fitness
-
How To Get V-Line Abs: Training And Nutrition | Beachbody
-
Exercises To Build Your V-lines - Medium
-
21 Best V Line Abs Ideas - Pinterest
-
How To Build Your Abdominals And Get The Famous V-Cut Abs ?
-
How Do You Get The V Line Abs? - Garage Fit
-
Non Surgical Ways To Achieve The Perfect V-line Face Shape - Eunogo
-
Exercises To Get V Line