The abdominal muscles, commonly referred to as “abs,” consist of several muscle groups, including the rectus abdominis, obliques, and transverse abdominis. When people talk about a “six-pack,” they’re primarily referring to the rectus abdominis muscle, which runs vertically down the front of the abdomen. This muscle is segmented into several bands of connective tissue, giving it that distinctive “pack” appearance.
For most individuals, the rectus abdominis naturally divides into eight distinct segments—four on each side. When well-defined, through a combination of muscle development and low body fat, these can become visible. This is what is popularly referred to as an “eight-pack.” However, the most common manifestation is a “six-pack,” where the lower pair of segments isn’t as pronounced or may even be fused, appearing as a single segment.
The notion of a “12 pack” is a bit of a misnomer. You won’t find an extra set of muscles on the human abdomen that can be trained to create 12 distinct segments. What some people may be referring to when they say “12 pack” is the inclusion of the oblique muscles on the sides of the abdomen. When highly developed and with low body fat, the obliques can also become prominent and add to the aesthetic of the core. However, they don’t create the same segmented look as the rectus abdominis.
While the term “12 pack abs” might sound impressive, it’s not anatomically accurate. The primary focus for those seeking a chiseled core should be on the rectus abdominis and oblique muscles. Achieving visibility requires a combination of muscle building exercises targeting these areas and reducing body fat through a balanced diet and consistent cardio workouts. Remember, everyone’s genetics are different, and the way your abs manifest will be unique to you.