Don't think you have to do 100 crunches a day -- or any at all -- to achieve those abs you've always dreamed of. In fact, through cardio activity, the right exercises and eating well, you can be well on your way to streamlining that tummy section.
Pilates
With a mat, comfortable clothes and the knowledge of the moods, you can practice Pilates moves that whittle away your ab fat. Pilates focuses on the core muscles of your body, which is great for those who want crunchless abs. Another benefit of Pilates is that the workouts are often strenuous enough to provide you a cardio workout as well. One of the most common Pilates moves is the Hundred, in which you lay on your back, raise your legs at a 45-degree angle while keeping then straight, then reaching your body upwards while your arms reach straight ahead. Holding this position, pulse 100 times. Learn more about Pilates.
Eating Right
It doesn't matter how many Pilates exercises (or crunches) you do if you have too much body fat. If you fall into this category, it's time to engage in a healthy eating lifestyle. This includes shunning processed foods and eating more fruits and vegetables. Don't be too strict on yourself that the plan backfires. Instead, find sensible substitutions for the foods you love. For example, for those chocolate cravings consider sugar free JELL-O pudding. If you are a carb queen, consider swapping out those baked potatoes for sweet potatoes, which are still starchy, but on a smaller scale. Instead of your typical pasta, consider spaghetti squash. Click here to learn how to adopt a healther eating lifestyle.
Cardiovascular Exercise
As part of keeping your body fat down, you will want to consider cardiovascular activity. While those out of shape will want to start slow, perhaps 20 minutes of exercise mose days of the week, you will eventually want to rev that up to 30 minutes to an hour at least five days a week. Find an activity that is fun, that you will want to stick to. For example, while the thought of walking or jogging may bore you, load an audio book to your MP3 player for a workout that also is entertaining. Learn more about cardiovascular activity.