Nearly everyone wants a flatter stomach. Many people spend years looking for a magic pill or magic trick that will cause them to wake up the next morning with a magically flat tummy. However, there is no magic solution to the tummy issue. It takes hard work and dedication. The secret is not a mystery, however. Many people get so overwhelmed with all of the advice in fitness magazines and on fitness websites, that they give up before they even begin. If you are looking for a flatter, sexier tummy, the following tips will help you burn off the pounds and tone up.
Cut Carbs
Carbs are great. A nice piece of warm bread, some yummy mashed potatoes or a bag of chips can soothe your stress after a hard day at the office. However, carbs are one of the biggest contributors to a flabby tummy. You don’t have to completely eliminate all carbs from your diet, but it’s important to eat these food items in moderation. Skip the carbs when you can and load up on other, healthier food items.
Add Veggies
Most veggies are great for your waistline, and you can have just about as many as you want. Pick up lots of carrots, celery, green peppers, lettuce and spinach at the grocery store. But remember, all the veggies in the world won’t help you if they are drenched in ranch dressing and bacon bits. Cold, freshly washed veggies are best.
Drink Water
One of the biggest improvements you can make to your diet is to cut out the sodas, fruit juices and other drinks that are full of empty calories. Add lots of water to your daily routine. At least 64 ounces is the minimum amount of water you should be drinking. More is better. Water can also help increase your metabolism. If you can’t stand plain water, add slices of lemon, lime or other citrus fruit. Mint leaves and lots of ice also help make this drink more palatable.
Cardio and Toning
What’s the best way to burn fat? Cardio. You don’t have to run for miles to burn calories, though. Look for fun exercises that you can do with friends and family. But burning fat isn’t enough; you’ve got to tone up the muscle beneath the fat for a flatter tummy. Pushups and crunches are the best exercises for this, but there are many great toning exercises to choose from.
Clothing Choices
You may not have washboard abs, but you don’t have to tell the world. Make wise clothing choices that flatter the body that you do have, and you will look amazing. You don’t have to walk around in baggy or too-tight clothing.
Just remember: Rome wasn’t built in a day. Your body didn’t get this way in a day, and it won’t get healthy and toned in a day, either. Carve out some time for exercise each day. Find exercises that work for you. And eat a healthy diet that consists of the proper nutrients to fuel your body. Most of all, don’t give up when you feel like it’s just too much work. Don’t beat yourself up if you miss a workout. Be kind to your body and it will repay you with good health and a good shape.
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