Damn Tummy!

Inrequia

Today I am struggling with some self confidence issues. I've been seeing some really good results from all of my efforts lately, but I am feeling really down about the fact that my stomach seems to be going nowhere.

Though I have been dealing with binge eating and emotional eating for years, I have always been rather health-concious with my food choices for meals. Lately I've been logging everything, staying under my calorie limit, and drinking lots of water. It's becoming habit, which is awesome.

I'm also nearing the end of my first week of the 30 Day Shred. Tomorrow is my weigh in, so I'm not sure if I have lost any weight, but my measurements have already changed. Over the last week, I've lost 10.5cm from various places (4.25) inches. That is amazing to me, but I almost want to cry when I look in the mirror and see my stomach, sticking out more than it used to! I know stomach fat tends to be the last to go, and it is probably looking bigger because the rest of me is smaller, but what do you guys do to work through these feelings of insecurity and doubt?

Inrequia

No one has any tips or stories to share?

Thewatcher_66

Abdominal crunches are a good way to get the tumy down. Also, I like to grab a large barbell (or dumbell) at the gym, place it in one hand with the other at my side, lean the barbell over to one side and bring it back up.

Also, when you do any kind of weight lifting exercise, sitting is usually a no-no. It's best to stand as much as possible because you are constantly working your abs. And the balance ball is awesome, try lifting weights using one of these and you'll will feel your abs really working hard in order to maintain some balance.

I'm in pretty good shape but I am 45 years old and sometimes I look at my own stomach and go "blech." LOL. It does take time, just hang in there.

Inrequia

Thanks, Jason! I'll try some of those exercises. I found that just venting about the issue a little bit gave me some relief.

MeganDominique

! i feel ya girl!!!!

Im also doing the shred in 30..eating my calories ect, but this dang pouche wont be vanisshed!!!! Do reverse crunches those are the best for the pouche! mines finally getting down but i know what you mean i had one of those days yesterday and my boyfriend reminded me it cant be 100% flat you got bones babe! but ya just keep going with the shred !

BarreGirl

I've always carried my weight in my stomach so this is the hardest area for me. Pilates has worked wonders. Stomach crunches really aren't enough. You need exercises that will work your entire core.

Starting my own 30 day shred tonight. Hopefully it will be a good combination...

ashblonde1

This is a problem area for me too!

Mine is shrinking, the only advice I can give is eat limited amounts of potato and pasta... I have also reduced my bread intake (to small slices of wholemeal bread), and this seems to be helping. Apparently carbonated drinks are also bad for bloating (although, I couldn't live without sparkling mineral water).

I have also completed the 30DS in the past, and can tell you that it really isn't till the beginning of week 4 that you notice a big difference.

Hang in there, you will lose.

Inrequia

Thanks, guys. It's nice to know that I'm not the only one dealing with this problem.

I'm going to keep on with the 30DS, but I'd love to add some pilates in there. I've always been interested in them, but have never given them a try. Any suggestions on some good DVDs to look for?

I am already trying to cut back on my carbs (even though I love sandwiches and pasta) and have really only been drinking water, tea/coffee and milk. I'll reflect on my food diary, though, and see if there's something that I'm not realizing.