When people refer to “ten pack abs,” they’re talking about the visible muscle definition in the abdominal region. The most common type of defined abs that people aim for is the “six pack,” which is the rectus abdominis muscle showing six distinct muscle segments or “packs.” Some people, however, have eight or even ten visible segments.
Now, whether one can achieve six, eight, or ten pack abs largely depends on a combination of factors, and genetics is certainly one of them. Everyone has the same basic muscle structure, but the way our muscles and tendons are arranged and the thickness of the fat layer covering the muscles can vary. The number of visible segments is determined by the tendinous creases that cross the rectus abdominis. These tendinous intersections are largely genetic, meaning you inherit the potential layout from your parents. So, if someone naturally has more of these intersections, they might be able to achieve an eight or ten pack with the right training and diet.
However, just having the genetic predisposition doesn’t automatically guarantee you’ll have a ten pack. Other crucial factors include body fat percentage, overall muscle mass, and the consistency of your fitness and dietary regimen. For the abs to be visible, one needs to have a relatively low body fat percentage, typically below 15% for men and 20% for women. Achieving and maintaining this requires a combination of resistance training, cardiovascular exercise, and a balanced diet.
While genetics play a role in determining the potential number of visible ab segments, whether or not they become visible and defined depends on factors like body composition, diet, and exercise. It’s worth noting that the pursuit of a specific number of packs shouldn’t overshadow the importance of overall health and functional fitness. Regardless of whether you have a six, eight, or ten pack, what’s most important is that you’re leading a healthy, active lifestyle.