Battling the bulge

One of the hardest areas for individuals to lose weight is the midsection. This is especially true for women after giving birth, or for men and women if they drink alcohol frequently. So how do you eliminate a “muffin top” without giving up all of the foods and drinks that you love? Personal trainer Brian Day said the best way to combat midsection bulge is to cut out processed foods and do some cardiovascular exercises mixed in with resistance training.

“Just getting active, cutting out soda, drinking lots of water and limiting alcohol will help tremendously,” Day said. “To have a good-looking midsection, the factors are genetics, proper nutrition, a balance of strength and cardiovascular training and flexibility.”

Day said not to invest in traditional sit-ups but do full-body strength training two to three times a week.

“Include some ab training in full workouts,” Day said. “When you do them, train abs with the use of a stability ball or do planks and bridges. Single leg circles and crunches with rotation help moms recondition their abs after pregnancy.”

Day said eating what you want without restriction will counter the effort.

“The best way to reduce the body fat in the midsection is to follow a healthy eating plan first, then include some cardio and strength training. Then results will happen.”

| Julie Kuhlman, Special to The Star