If you have had trouble losing that last bit of belly fat after your baby arrived, Fear not, here are some suggestions that should take care of that age old problem. First of all develop a "no excuse” attitude. Get that work out no matter what. If you can't go out to exercise or walk, you can always put in a CD and dance. If the baby is restless pick him up and dance with him. Let it become a morning or afternoon routine. The baby will love it and look at all the benefit to you.
New research shows that strength training just twice a week decreases belly fat. To whittle your middle whether you have had a baby or just want a flatter stomach, try these exercises.
- Squats (legs and buttocks): Stand, then bend your knees and lower your hips toward the floor.
- Push-ups (chest): Kneel with hands on the floor, below your chest. Bend and straighten your elbows.
- Triceps dips (arms): Scoot your butt off a chair but hold onto he outer corners of it. Then bend and straighten your arms out behind you.
- Abductions (shoulders): Lift arms to your sides for 10 seconds, so your body makes a "T" shape, elbows straight and palms downward.
- "Superwoman" (back): Lie facedown with your arms in front of you. Lift legs for 2 seconds, keeping torso and nose on the ground.
If you feel you must have a beverage when you are out, try these substitutes.
- Instead of a Tall Caffe Mocha (12 oz, 290 calories) try a "Skinny" Tall Caffe Mocha (12 oz, 90 calories). Calories saved (200).
- Instead of a Small Caramel Crème Latte (10oz., 260 calories) Try a Small Caramel Latte Lite (10 oz, 80 calories) Calories saved (180)
- Instead of a Small French Vanilla Cappuccino (8oz, 250 calories) Try a Small French Vanilla Cappuccino Lite (8 oz, 250 calories) Calories saved 166)
- Eat sensibly; trade your favorite chips and cookies for fresh fruit and vegetable snacks. Make a daily routine of your exercise and watch your fat melt away.
