Expert: Linda Erwin, M.S. - 12/3/2004

Question
I want to find out the type excercise that will help me trim my tummy. I am not yet married but my tummy is big. what do I do to flatten it?

Answer
I'm not sure what getting married has to do with big tummy's but I will try to answer your question.  The best way to lose fat anywhere on your body is to do aerobic workouts for up to 45 minutes 4-5 times per week that gets your heart rate up to at least 70-85% of your maximum heart rate.  That will burn fat.  Then you need to do abdominal exercises that will focus on your abdominals.  If you have cable tv, you can find Fit TV channels and follow along when they do exercises.  You can go to a video store and rent exercise videos and they will coach you along the way.  The point is to look at what you are eating and drinking, get active, and do the exercises to tone up all over your body.  It takes a lifestyle change to get the flat stomach and to keep it that way.  Give yourself a chance to work up to the full workouts but stay consistent.  In 6 weeks, you will see a difference.
Linda