When it comes to the perfect male physique, our thoughts often return to a certain Hollywood icon’s V-line abs in Fight Club. There’s good reason Brad Pitt’s body in that movie inspired a TikTok trend: he’s lithe yet muscular, slim but with some size. And, of course, he has the prized V-line shape to his abs. You may also remember a similar set of muscles from that era, on the singer D’Angelo in his video for “Untitled (How Does It Feel).” They’re the ultimate sign of a dialed-in fitness routine. But just what are they, and how can you get them?
What are V lines?
“V lines are where the obliques meet the transversus abdominis muscles. They are only visible when you have a very low body fat percentage, which can either mean 11% or lower for men, and 14% or lower for women,” explains David Wiener, a training and nutrition specialist at the AI-based fitness coaching app Freeletics.
Wiener says that V lines are “highly sought after”—and require a lot of effort and commitment to achieve. Doing 50 sit-ups three times a week will not get your there.
“The best way to work towards this goal is through a calorie deficit, targeted training and the right mind-set,” Wiener explains, adding that “some people may not find this a sustainable way to live, and therefore it can make achieving and keeping V lines unattainable.”
We have to stress this last part. While we all have obliques and transversus abdominis muscles, having visible V lines isn’t “normal” by any stretch of the word. Getting them requires pushing beyond your limitations and taking your workout routine to the next level. And the benefits are purely aesthetic.
“Furthermore, a low body fat percentage doesn’t necessary equate to optimum health,” Wiener says. “I would advise seeking professional opinion with your regime. And, genetics can either mean it’s easier to achieve, or a much harder task.”
Still want to get V-‘d up? Read on for Wiener’s tips for unleashing your inner Tyler Durden.
Stay consistent
V lines are doable, as long as you’re willing to put the work in, and stick with it. “A lot of people assume reducing body fat is a really hard process, but as long as you are focusing on good nutrition while staying in a calorie deficit, and participate in a good training regime, you will see results,” says Wiener.
