Tips for the Core

TIPS FOR THE CORE

Improving the strength and look of your midsection can be achieved with greater ease when the proper steps are followed. If this is something you are currently working towards, take a look at the following tips to help you reach your goal.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Regular cardio is a must to help you burn fat from all over your entire body so that you can actually see you abs.

TIP: Get at least 30 minutes of cardio exercise 3-5 days out of the week.

TIP: Try fasted cardio. A short 15-20 minute routine can rev up your metabolism and have your body burning fat throughout the entire day.

If you are still in the beginning stages of losing weight, limit the amount of weighted abdominal exercises you perform. They may cause you to build abdominal muscles which will make your midsection look bulkier.

Twisting abdominal exercises are excellent for working and engaging your entire core. Some really good ones include:

• Bicycle Crunches

• Russian Twists

• Windshield Wipers

Your core plays big role in ensuring that you perform your exercises correctly, so actively engaging it will lead to stronger abdominal and back muscles.

TIP: Pay attention to your core and posture during all physical activity and during your normal daily activities

TIP: Sitting, standing and walking with proper posture is very important, as a weak back can to weak abdominal muscles. Your core is a working unit so it’s good to work it as a whole.

DIET

Make water your number one choice of beverage. It is so important when it comes to weight loss, speeding up your metabolism, flushing out toxins and burning fat.

TIP: A good trick? Drink a glass of warm water with lemon or lime juice first thing in the morning to help boost your metabolism.

Aim to limit the amount of sugar in your diet which can store as fat on your body when you consume excessive amounts. This includes sweets and pastries, candies, sugary juices and various condiments and sauces.

TIP: Replacing your sweet pastries and sugary juices with fruits and natural fruit smoothies.

Lighten up your meals as the day goes on. Your energy expenditure decreases as the day passes so consuming heavy meals late in the day makes it easier for your body to store extra calories as fat. Lean eating is key to bringing out and keeping your abs.

TIP: Dinner ideas? Spinach and Romaine lettuce with chunks of chicken breast and ½ of a baked sweet potato or a baked salmon filler with brown rice and mixed veggies.