Expert: Linda Erwin, M.S. - 11/15/2006

Question
Hi,
I am 5'1 and about 120 lbs. I look petite but I have a little stomach that I am trying to get rid off. I guess
love handles and lower stomach blub.

I do not have the $ or time to go to a gym. I googled online and read that Jump roping is a great cardio to do with stomach excercise to burn fat. I usually tuck my feet under the couch and do sit-ups. Is that correct?
If not, please correct me.

I want to purchase a jump rope with a calorie counter.
How many calories do I need to burn along with how
much stomach excercise? What kind of routine is best?
3 days - 1/2 hour jump rope/3 days sit-ups? alternate days?


Answer
Hi Debbie,
Jumping rope is a great exercise.  You will need to build up to 45-60 minutes of jumping (or any other aerobic exercise) to burn the fat you need at least 4-5 times per week.  Stomach exercises are able to be done daily.  Putting your feet under the couch would be okay but you don't want to come up all the way.  Rent an exercise video on abs so you can see all the different ways to do them.  
You want to do the upper, lower and waistline (obliques).
Good luck,
Linda