Numerous studies have shown the people of larger waist sizes have the highest risk of life threatening diseases. A waist line of 40 or more inches can greatly increase the risk of diabetes and heart disease substantially. For example the average waist size of an American man is between 37 and 38 inches around the waist. American women have also seen their waist size increase over the years.

Having abs does not mean that you remove all risk associated with your health, but it can significantly reduce your chances of heart disease and other related health risks. The reason for this is that if you have abdominal muscles it generally means that you are in good health and have a stronger body.

One of these health risks is cancer and the world health organization estimates that 1/3 of cancers of the colon are caused by being overweight and generally non-active. Cancer is caused by mutation of cells in the body and the cells which are the most active and hence have the highest chance of mutation are the fat cells around your waist.

Besides helping you feel better and have more energy for work and leisure time you’ll be able to do more vigorous activities like playing with your kids, gardening or biking if you are fit.

Having abs could potentially reduce the chance of stroke significantly and the good news is it is not too late to start, anybody can work their way to having abs and a healthier life, but they have to start today.