Expert: Linda Erwin, M.S. - 12/31/2006

Question
I have been doing ab exercises for a while now and I do notice something, though I'm not sure it's what I'm supposed to be noticing(BTW I'm a 17 year old male).
I don't see 6 packs, but my rib cage has sort of expanded out of my stomach. Is this normal?

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The text above is a follow-up to ...

-----Question-----
HI,
I heard that exercising without getting sore for 2 days is better than nothing, but not good enough.
Do you agree?
I very much want to build up my abs and get a flat stomach.How long do you think that would take? With only a fitness ball and my body, how do I do it? Should I be doing sit-ups(or 100s with the fitness ball,etc.) literally till that muscle starts hurting(I'm guessing thats what they mean by soreness)?
How much should I do?
-----Answer-----
Hi Jeff,
I don't know who told you that you have to be sore to get results but that isn't true.  What you do have to do is do them correctly and get the upper and lower abs, and obliques.  You can do abs everyday because there are so many fibers.  Get a current exercise video or DVD that focuses on abs using a medicine ball.  You can find them on the internet by googling abdominal videos using medicine balls.  
If you do them at least 4-5 times a week you should start seeing major results in 6 weeks.  Since I know nothing about you I can't really advise about nutrition, water, and aerobic exercise.  
Good luck and don't forget to work your whole body in a healthy and reasonable way.
Linda

Answer
Hi Jeff,
I don't think I can answer your question about your rib cage expanded from your stomach. Do you mean that your stomach is more taut so your ribs stick out?  Also at age 17, expecting to get a 6 pack in a short time is unrealistic.  You just have to keep up your fitness routine, keep changing it so your body doesn't get used to it.  Watch what you eat...stay away from junk and drink lots of water.  Be patient and you will see results.
Happy New Year!
Linda