Visible six-pack abs primarily depend on two factors: the development of your abdominal muscles and the amount of fat covering them. At 15% body fat, you’re in a range where your abs might start to show, but visibility can vary based on individual differences.
Firstly, if you have well-developed abdominal muscles from consistent core workouts and resistance training, they can begin to show even at slightly higher body fat percentages like 15%. This is because the thickness and size of the muscle can push against the overlaying fat, creating some definition.
On the other hand, if your abdominal muscles aren’t as developed, they might not be as prominent, even if you’re at 15% body fat or slightly lower. It’s akin to having a thin blanket (body fat) over a small bump (less developed muscles) versus a larger bump (more developed muscles).
Moreover, where your body stores fat is also genetically determined. Some individuals tend to store more fat in the abdominal region, while others might store it in their thighs, hips, or elsewhere. So, two people with the same body fat percentage might display different levels of ab visibility due to their fat distribution.
Lastly, another factor to consider is skin thickness and water retention, which can also obscure muscle definition.
While it’s possible to see some definition of your six-pack at 15% body fat, especially if you’ve been working on building those muscles, optimal visibility often occurs at lower body fat percentages for most people. However, remember that everyone’s body is different, and what’s most important is being healthy and feeling good about your progress. If your goal is to have a more pronounced six-pack, you might consider further reducing your body fat while continuing to strengthen and develop your core muscles.