Ella Chen’s "Abdominal Vacuum" Demonstration at Xi’an Concert Sparks Online Debate

 

Taiwanese pop icon Ella Chen, 44, has once again become a trending topic on social media following a recent stop on her concert tour in Xi’an, Shaanxi. While the former S.H.E member is well-known for her lean physique, a spontaneous demonstration of her "abdominal vacuum" technique has divided fans, with some praising her discipline and others expressing concern for her health.

The Viral Moment

During a break between songs, Ella took a moment to chat with the audience about her fitness journey. Wearing a black halter top that showcased her toned midriff, she asked the cameraman to zoom in as she demonstrated a deep-core yoga move.

• The Technique: Ella took a deep breath, exhaled completely, and pulled her abdominal muscles inward toward her spine.

• The Visual: The move caused her stomach to hollow out significantly, making her ribcage appear strikingly prominent.

• The Reaction: She held the pose for approximately 10 seconds, drawing cheers from the live crowd. She later joked, “I still can’t do the rolling stomach move; I can only do the vacuum.”

Mixed Reactions from Netizens

While the live audience was impressed, the footage quickly went viral on Weibo, where the reaction was more polarized.

Admiration for Discipline: Many fitness enthusiasts defended the singer, noting that the move requires immense core strength and control. Ella, a mother to a nine-year-old son, is famously disciplined, maintaining a body fat percentage previously reported at 16.7% through a mix of yoga, jogging, and weight training.

Health Concerns: Conversely, some netizens found the visual "startling" or "terrifying," with one commenter remarking that it looked as if "all of her organs had disappeared." Fans expressed worry that her frame appeared too thin, urging the star to focus on a more "sustainable" weight.

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What is the "Abdominal Vacuum"?

The abdominal vacuum is a traditional yoga and bodybuilding technique designed to target the transverse abdominis—the deepest layer of abdominal muscle.

• The Benefits: When done correctly, it can improve posture, support the spine, and increase core stability.

• The Risks: Health experts warn that the move is not for everyone. Doctors advise that improper execution can lead to muscle strain or, in rare instances, increase the risk of a hernia.

• Who Should Avoid It? Those with spinal issues, mobility limitations, or women who have recently given birth are generally advised to seek professional guidance before attempting the maneuver.

Despite the controversy, Ella continues to be a major influence in the fitness space, frequently sharing her weight-loss tips and workout routines with her millions of followers.