Thread: Belly skin looks weird when abs are contracted

Hi ya'll. Newbie Bhuzzer here.

I've been dancing for just over a year and practice every chance I get. I'm of a thin to medium build and my tummy is not unattractive relaxed, just a very slight potbelly really, if you know what I mean. As I've strenghthened my upper and lower abs and my obliques, I've noticed that when I contract these muscles, the skin, or actually it looks more like just under the skin, looks weird. It's sort of like cellulite looks, an uneven texture and colour. ..cr.: When I watch DVDs of various bellydance performers/teachers I don't notice seeing this in anyone else during undulations and such.

Is this normal? What is it? Is there some way I can smooth it out? I'm 35, so I don't know if age has something to do with it? Any ideas?

Originally Posted by Oona_Belly

Hi ya'll. Newbie Bhuzzer here.

I've been dancing for just over a year and practice every chance I get. I'm of a thin to medium build and my tummy is not unattractive relaxed, just a very slight potbelly really, if you know what I mean. As I've strenghthened my upper and lower abs and my obliques, I've noticed that when I contract these muscles, the skin, or actually it looks more like just under the skin, looks weird. It's sort of like cellulite looks, an uneven texture and colour. ..cr.: When I watch DVDs of various bellydance performers/teachers I don't notice seeing this in anyone else during undulations and such.

Is this normal? What is it? Is there some way I can smooth it out? I'm 35, so I don't know if age has something to do with it? Any ideas?

There are topical creams that can temporarily plump up the skin and reduce the appearance of "cellulite". I haven't used them but one that has been discussed here is called fat girl thin or something like that (?)

There is probably nothing you can do in terms of exercise or diet. A mesh body stocking in a color that matches your skin or your costume is an option you might like.

However, I am curious as to whether you are excessively clenching your ab muscles more than necessary to execute the movements. Do you think that is possible?

Welcome to the club! Mine isn't that bad, but I'm only 28 and I worry that things can only get worse!!

I just make sure I apply those plumping creams for a week or so before big performances and they reduce it to acceptable levels.

Originally Posted by ssipes

There are topical creams that can temporarily plump up the skin and reduce the appearance of "cellulite". I haven't used them but one that has been discussed here is called fat girl thin or something like that (?)

I suppose when I get to where I can perform professionally, I'll look into the temporary creams more. My husband, the sweetie he is, says it's hardly noticable. Bless.

There is probably nothing you can do in terms of exercise or diet.

NO!!!

However, I am curious as to whether you are excessively clenching your ab muscles more than necessary to execute the movements. Do you think that is possible?

Only clenching as much as Jillina makes me...lol. It's the worst doing those darn lower upward undulation/upward camel thingees.

Originally Posted by zafirah

Welcome to the club! Mine isn't that bad, but I'm only 28 and I worry that things can only get worse!!

I just make sure I apply those plumping creams for a week or so before big performances and they reduce it to acceptable levels.

Thanks for the tip. I can't tell it from your photos though, honey. You look great! By the way, I notice that our body shapes/sizes are very similar! Where do you get your pretty costumes?

Oh, and that photo of you with Alan and Bill...that's great. Hubs and I love those guys. Too bad you couldn't get Stephen in on it!