It’s time for Operation Flat Abs
How are your fitness goals going so far? One goal it seems nearly everyone strives for is flat abs. Moms like me often suffer from a stubborn belly pooch after having children. There are many things you can do to help reclaim the flat abs you had when you were younger.
There are many excellent exercises to try. Some of my favorite ab routines can be found on YouTube for free. One channel I really like is Fitness Blender.
TONE UP ALL OVER
This is the key to letting strong abs shine through. A cardio program is great for this, but keep in mind that a 30-minute run or a single sweat session at the gym won’t make up for a day of being sedentary.
It’s easier than you might think. You can add in more total-body movement during times when you already do routine things like using the restroom, brushing your teeth or doing the dishes. The benefits include a revved up metabolism, and more toned muscles without ever going to the gym.
- Brushing teeth – 30 squats
- Using bathroom (at home) – 20 tricep dips – use the toilet or side of tub for support
- Doing the dishes – steps side to side or march in place
- Watching TV – do 10 pushups during commercial breaks
GET ENOUGH SLEEP
During the school year, you’re likely spending some time accommodating early wake up times and after school activities. But remember to fit YOURSELF and YOUR NEEDS into the schedule as well! While you’re in “schedule mode,” spend some time figuring out ways for you to prioritize sleep.
Lack of sleep can add bulk to your middle in two ways. First, when you’re sleep deprived you lack the energy and stamina required for maintaining a solid fitness program. Secondly, lack of sleep is a stressor to the body. The stress hormone cortisol climbs, which — when prolonged — can mess with appetite regulation blood sugar control. Hormones that stimulate appetite increase (ghrelin), while hormones that blunt appetite drop (leptin). So sleep your way trim!
STAY REGULAR
Constipation is incredibly common, and not only is it uncomfortable, it can also lead to serious health issues. I’ve experienced this myself. No matter how many ab-blasting exercises you do, you will not have a flat tummy until you’re able to eliminate on a regular basis. Please don’t feel embarrassed thinking about (and addressing, if needed) your bowel movements! I addressed my own constipation problem by uncovering specific food sensitivities and changing my diet.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT DIET FOR YOU
Everyone has different needs when it comes to diet. What works for me may be different than you. For me, what works best is a gluten free and dairy free diet that’s high in fiber (for regularity), and plenty of protein and healthy fats to keep me satisfied longer after each meal.
I recommend speaking with your doctor or working with a nutritionist to find healthy diet options that will work for you. We’ve got plenty of ideas for healthy recipes ideas. Here are a few of my favorites.
15 Weight Watchers Recipes to Make at Home
Awesome thank you for sharing the amazing article.
Great tips and the most overlooked ones! I struggle with making sure I get adequate rest and moving enough but I’m working hard at it in 2021!
Hi Jenn, great post! Easy and to the point! ?
Interesting and thanks for your information 🙂
I needed this one! I love how you’ve included when to do these exercises during everyday occurrences. Like most people, my biggest excuse was “I don’t have time for the gym” or “I’m too tired after work.” Nice job eliminating those for me and a lot of other people. You are truly an inspiration!! I hope that everyone can use this https://shrinkme.io/weight_loss_tips to get off the couch and get to those sit-ups.
Comeback Momma is literaly the BEST weight loss-healthy food community anywhere. I read it everyday, and I’m so gratedul I found https://mmini.me/LoseAllWeightFast ,it helped me not only to lose weight, but keep it off, hope it helps some others.
Just Average Jen is literaly the BEST weight loss-healthy food community anywhere. I read it everyday, and I’m so gratedul I found https://mmini.me/LoseAllWeightFast ,it helped me not only to lose weight, but keep it off, hope it helps some others.
Getting enough sleep is a huge issue for me. I work full time outside the home so the only time I work on my site/get online is at night. There’s not enough time in my day to do it all!
wow she looks amazing. I definitely need to do what she’s doing .
Awwww… Dina, I just read your sweet comment! Thank you! You made my day. 😉
I really need to give this a try!
These are great tips! I definitely need to start putting this stuff into my everyday routine, thanks!
I really need to get myself back on a routine and add working out to that routine. I’m an admitted lazy girl! LOL
Getting sleep is definitely important … I don’t have kids but I tend to stay up late and feel tired when I wake up for work.
Thanks for such a thorough article. The stomach is a hard place to tone up! I love the squat idea
I have been working on trying to get on a regular sleep schedule. For the past couple of weeks I have been doing pretty well at it. I hope to start tackling some of the other stuff soon, too.
I am going to print that anti-bloat smoothie recipe, I seem to have issues in that department more-so when I’m active. Thanks for the great tips, as always!
Jenna – I hope you like it!
I really do need to work on more sleep. I struggle with that one.
Ellen — I definitely struggle with sleep! Between getting enough, and also getting to sleep when my head finally does hit the pillow, it can be tough. One of the best tricks I’ve come across is to get a lovely silk pillowcase and to wash your pillow regularly. It makes snuggling in (and falling asleep) so much more inviting. 😉
Yes. I have been using that same reference for some time.