Michael

There's always been one thing I was interested in. First off, dow do some of the pros keep their waists so small while having enormous upper bodies while other people (take Layne Norton f.ex.) have really thick waists? Is it the diet, training or just genetics?


Secondly, I have noticed that my waist is pretty thick even for my pathetic size and that troubles me. I know my bodyfat is pretty high (12%)for me to have a tiny waist, but is there any specific exercises I should avoid doing because of their potential to widen the waist? And are there any exercises that can actually shrink it?

Prime

I'd say one main reason is the art of illusion. the pros have such a large upper body that their waist seems small.

it would also have to do something with genetics, like all other anatomical aspects, and also have something to do with your diet.

Big Guns

I agree w/ Prime. Narrow hips are all genetics. The best thing is to try not to have your ab area be much larger than your hips. And again if you have broad shoulders by illusion your hips w/ appear small.

Critical Mass

Ok...... Many pro's are taking their igf-1 and growth hormone in such large doses that their guts are growing. :unsure: Another problem is when and where they inject. The best time to inject growth and igf-1 is immediately after the workout, and pin the exact muscles that were trained. This is because the receptors are ready and hungry for it. The receptors in the muscle will absorb the bulk of the igf. The intestines also have igf receptors. If you dont pin the intended area, the guts will absorb it and grow.

IF you are concerned, then you should avoid doing any exercises for the obliques. Especially if you are on a mass gaining diet. Remember, when you start cutting, your muscles will get smaller. This includes your abs and obliques getting smaller after the fat has been burnt away.

Pfabrizi1

Yeah, some of the pros use their belts for almost all standing work to avoid using their obliques while stabilizing for exercises. You probably don't need to go to this extreme, but using one while squatting or doing any other work that requires a lot of stabilization by the obliques (OH press, stuff like that) isn't a bad idea if aesthetics are a main concern. If performance is your main concern than using a belt isn't necessary (unless for safety on heavy squats etc.).

I wouldn't worry about it too much right now, but later on if you are noticing problems you should consider the belt option.

Michael

Thanks. I'll try using a belt in future if my waist starts going out of proportion...

1quick1

I wouldn't be too quick to throw out core strength in trade for a small waist. You really won't know how yours will look until you fill out some more.

Pfabrizi1

Yeah I was about to say... although it will make sure your obliques don't get too large, be sure that it isn't just fat on your waist. Usually you will only really notice your obliques getting too large when you are very muscular, hence why the pros keep their obliques in mind and use belts. I was just saying, for future reference.
Like quick said, for now I would definitely not sacrifice core strength at least until you pack mass and a good amount of overall strength. Be aware of it, but don't worry too much for now.

Big Guns

Stop doi8ng side bends. That will thicken your waist. Do what 1Q1 says. ONLY wear a belt on heavy lifts. It's not a fashion accessory.