HOW YOU CAN GET A FLAT STOMACH

Yes, YOU. First off, let’s establish that everything is easier said than done. Weight loss, weight gain, better legs, better butt, better arms—whatever it is you’re trying to achieve, unless you’re an anomaly (which at least 80% of us haven’t proven to be) you will have to invest time and effort to achieve desired results.

You’ve heard it all before, and it’s absolutely true: Abs are made in the kitchen. You’re never going to have a flat stomach, let alone a six-pack if you don’t decrease your overall fat percentage. This requires meticulous attention to your diet and working to eliminate—or drastically reduce the consumption of foods which offer little to no nutritional value. I highly suggest keeping an online food journal through SparkPeople to help you through this.

Now that you’ve addressed your diet, remember there’s no such thing as spot reduction. You can’t only do exercises specifically targeting your stomach and expect results. You must incorporate cardio and an effective strength training routine to start shedding those pounds and showing off those abs! Don’t be discouraged if you lose weight elsewhere first; genetics and commitment will determine when your flat stomach will make its debut.

Below are some of the exercises I incorporate into my overall regimen to make sure my stomach never hangs over my belt:

1. Jumprope.

This is one of the simplest, most effective ways to shed pounds when I’m aggressively trying to lean out. Buy one, or borrow your kids’.

2. Planks + Side Planks

Not only do they strengthen your core, but they also strengthen your arms and legs.

3. Pushups

I LOVE pushups. Even modified pushups are effective. Like planks, they also strengthen your arms. Look out, Shelly O!

4. Yoga

Believe it or not, my first real introduction to Yoga was through the Wii Fit. I’ve since begun incorporating some of the poses independently, and count these among my favorite:

Spinal Twist
Downward Facing Dog
Cobra
Bridge
Half Moon

5. Hula Hoop

I used to be terrible, but finally got the hang of it! Hula Hooping is so fun, and it can help eliminate those love handles as well as strengthen your core and arms.

Stay tuned for the 2011 BlackGirlFit(ness) Challenge, ladies (& gents). I’ll be announcing the details soon through Facebook. Remember to Like the page.