Stomach is not flattening or toning up.

I have struggled with this as well. I didn't have that much to lose to begin with, and I've been going strong for 6 months and still don't have a flat belly. I've definitely seen a lot more progress since I began strength training, though. My workouts now revolve around lifting weights rather than running or doing other cardio. That has helped a lot! But another big part of it is nutrition. I've struggled with cutting out sugar and sweets, but I bet if I did it would really help!

I agree with those that are suggesting you add some strength training into your workouts and also those who are saying that you cannot spot reduce. That bulge (which I also have and hate!) will only go away by overall body fat reduction. The belly is the last place is goes from ... sadly. Basically it disappears from head to toe and toe to head, but at the same time, so the mid-section is the last to lose. Dang it!

If you add strength training, consider doing it prior to your cardio for three reasons: 1) doing the strength training will burn glycogen stores first and unwanted fat 2nd (while doing cardio). 2) you will be more apt to do the weight moves properly doing them first, with non-fatigued muscles. Doing them improperly won't do what you are looking for and you are more apt to injur yourself. 3) When you do cardio, your body continues to burn calories after you have stopped ... for a couple of hours. When you do strength training, your body continues to burn colories for several hours. When you do strength before cardio ... it conitnues to burn calories upwards of half a day or more. Lean muscle also burns calories faster and more efficiently, so the more muscle you have, the more calories you burn even while not 'working out'

I am 5' 113.8 lbs and have always had a little belly pooch (even at 10 pounds less). I played sports in college and have always been active. It wasn't until I started weight lifting combined with cardio that the little bit of fat started melting off. Do you cardio after you lift to burn the most fat and I reccomend diong at least 30-45 mintues of cardio or farleks. Your abs need rest too - just like any other muscle, so doing 1000 crunches 7 days a week won't get you ask far as going hard and heavy 4 days a week. Cut out sugars and eat your carbs early in the day too. Lots of water and little to no alcohol helps alot as well.

I am training for a fitness competition and marathon and have been practicing clean eating for 2 months now. I can tell the difference in my belly if I have a major cheat day at this point. It's hard work but work the flat abs. Hope this helps!