Probably the most commonly asked question of the fitness industry is “how can I lose weight around my mid section?” Generally, the last few pounds of stubborn weight are stuck in this area, as well as anything left over from pregnancy, college years, and dozens of fast food meals. Getting rid of your stubborn love handles to trim down and actually see your toned muscles underneath takes work but with dedication and willpower, it will not take you long to achieve.
The most important thing to begin the process is to commit to making this happen, and have the determination that you are going to see it through until the end. Set a goal of being able to see your abs within 12 weeks, and strive every day to make it a reality. This includes visualizing it, saying a positive affirmation of your goals daily, and documenting your progress in a fitness journal.
You are also going to have to overhaul your eating habits. The saying you are what you eat is completely truthful and you are going to have to clean up your eating to ensure success with tightening and toning of your waistline. This doesn’t mean that you will be eating less, in fact, you will probably be eating more than normal but it will be completely different types of foods. Include a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains products only. Your diet must be virtually free of processed or refined foods, soda, juice, or candies. For the next several weeks, you are going to change your eating habits to help your body eliminate as much fat tissue as possible.
To really tone up your abdominals, you will need to incorporate a workout which you are going to perform twice per week. You can include a combination of any of the following exercises and be sure to do three sets of 12 – 15 reps per exercise:
o “V” Ups
o Planks, Side planks
o Supine (face up) Leg Raises
o Russian Twists
o Prone Hyperextensions
o Reverse Crunch
o Lying Dumbbell Torso Raise
The key to really letting those newly defined abs shine, is to decrease the fat on top of them. Make sure to get in roughly 30 minutes of moderate to intense cardiovascular activity at least four times per week. A great choice of cardiovascular work if you are stuck for time is High Intensity Interval Training which will speed up your metabolism.
Matthew has written on lots of varied topics over the past few years. Have a look at one of his websites http://twinxlmattress.org which gives information about purchasing a twin XL mattress.
