When people mention “skinny abs,” they are typically referring to individuals who appear to have abdominal definition mainly due to having a low body fat percentage, rather than from well-developed abdominal muscles. In other words, they are lean enough that the outline of their abs can be seen, but the abs themselves might not be strongly developed.
Everyone’s abdominal muscles are structured in a way that, when lean enough, can give the appearance of the coveted “six-pack.” However, the depth and prominence of those abs largely come from muscular development, achieved through specific and consistent strength training exercises.
It’s essential to differentiate between being skinny or lean and having well-developed muscles. Someone might be thin due to genetics, a fast metabolism, or dietary habits, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they have strong or well-defined muscles. On the other hand, an individual who actively trains their core and engages in resistance training will likely have more pronounced and stronger abs, even if they have a slightly higher body fat percentage.
In the world of fitness and aesthetics, both types of abs can be appreciated. However, if your goal is functional strength and core stability, merely being skinny won’t provide those benefits. Building muscle through targeted exercises will not only enhance the appearance of the abs but will also provide increased strength, stability, and injury prevention.
So, in answer to your question, “skinny abs” are real in the sense that they are genuine abdominal muscles visible due to low body fat. But if we’re talking about well-developed, functional abs, it’s essential to incorporate specific exercises to build those muscles, not just reduce body fat. Achieving visible six-pack abs is a combination of both muscle development and fat reduction. It’s the interplay of these two factors that lead to the coveted defined look many aim for.