I wish I wasn't apple shaped!

Jadelovescake

Hi All,

I'm tall with slim legs and arms, a generous bust but a big round belly that looks like it shouldn't belong to me.

I'm trying hard to get fit and healthy, the weight is coming off slowly and I'm really happy with my progress so far not to mention I feel amazing! But, I have found my dream coat and it fits perfectly everywhere........except my belly.

At the moment my routine is a mix of steady rate cardio, interval training and relatively light weights with squats, lunges, deadlifts etc every other day.

I've been reading posts and know that there's no such thing as spot reduction but I was wondering if anyone has any advice or tips on how I can somehow lose some inches from my midriff? Are there any particular exercises I should be doing?

Thanks so much,

Jade

rblair_22

Have you tried tae bo? I own some of the billy blanks dvds and I really like them because he works your entire body, but he does do a lot of focusing on your core. I've noticed that when doing his video's I always lost a lot of inches, especially around my middle. Hope this helps.

melsinct

Unfortunately we are stuck with what we are given. I am a pear shape which stinks because even now at 5'7", size 8, and 147 pounds, I still have what I'd consider saddlebags. For me, my stubborn area (hips/thighs) was the last place I lost inches. It is a stinky answer, but as you lose weight all over, your belly will get smaller. Unfortunately it seems the parts we hate most are the last to go.

allie1904

My understanding is that it's cardio and fat loss all the way but weighted and strength exercises to maintain muscle mass and strengthen the muscles under the fat.

BeautyFromPain

Losing weight anywhere is 80% diet, 20% exercise.
but especially for a flat stomach try upping proteins and "if it didn't come from the ground or doesn't have a mother- don't eat it."

ljedmom

I wish I wasn't apple shaped too! After my second child, I ran a lot and did a lot of core work on the off days (Abs of Steel and Pilates). I also said no to any processed sugar (read: dessert and junk cereal) for 6 months. I lost 30 lbs and while I will never have a tiny waist, my middle was tight from all the core work and like the stronger muscles were helping hold it in. Unfortunately, the answer is mostly just work, work, work, committment, committment, committment

Thanks for the post...now I'm remembering "outloud" and realizing that if I don't just do it, it'll never happen!

ps--the no sugar thing is HARD...my sister lived with us then and did it with me. I'd suggest finding a buddy who you see in real life regularly to help you stay on track.

Jadelovescake

Thanks for all your help guys, I definitely need to add some core work into my routine.

As for the sugar thing, I've been reading loads about cutting out the white stuff and the benefits of a natural and pretty much paleo way of eating, "if it didn't come from the ground or doesn't have a mother- don't eat it." - what a great quote!!!

I think a lot of my problem is definitely bloating and swelling from way too many carbs but I'm just burying my head in the sand and trying to ignore it because the thought of giving up bread, pasta, cous cous, porridge, etc etc gives me nightmares!!

willaj78

I feel your pain

kellyb63

I would love to get rid of my apple. I was the perfect Black Bomber Angry Bird for Halloween this year. When I look in mirror in the morning, the stomach flab just lies there, I wish I could just suck all the fat out,. Aggggh. I do a lot of ab work after doing Jillian Michaels DVDs. Trying to stay away from bad sugars, starches, and breads. No fried foods. No alcohol and gallons of water. Any apples who need to motivation feel free to friend me.

gretchensdoll

I've heard apple shaped has to do with belly fat and can be related to adrenal overload and hormone production, so reducing sugar and sugar veggies like carrots can help- find hidden sugar get ur coat you will look fabulous