Abs exercises

[LostinVA]

Okay, I do good cardio and weights... but I'm 41, female, and having trouble with the abs. I am realistic: I don't want a six-pack, just not a little pouch. Any ideas? Regular crunches, swiss ball crunches, and bicycles aren't doing too much.

[Roon]

1. It's all about the diet

I can show you how to eat clean, if you like.

[LostinVA]

2. I think I eat decently clean, but I am very interested

in your advice!

[Roon]

9. Here you go

http://forums.menshealth.com/groupee/forums/a/frm/f/295109121

[Deja Q]

3. Wear a posture brace snugly, don't slouch.

I'm something of a blubbergut myself, and wearing one through the day has helped.

So has a diet to have the body burn fat.

Ditto for cardio exercise.

[Oeditpus Rex]

4. Ask Shine

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=105x4839344#4839418

[LostinVA]

5. I just did -- thanks!

[flamingyouth]

6. Try Pilates.

:hi:

[LynzM]

7. Pilates!!

Strengthens and tones your whole core, which helps not only strengthen your muscles, but improves your posture, too. GAIAM has some good DVDs; I like Ana Caban's beginners mat workout, myself :)

[LostinVA]

8. Cool! Thanks.

[GoneOffShore]

10. Got a good one for you

Choreographer friend taught me this one. She's 48, great shape (except for her knees, which are shot) and tiny.

Get on the floor face down. Keeping your back, butt and neck straight, get up on your elbows and toes. Hold the pose for 30 seconds, breathing while you count. Rest a minute, repeat. I think it's a Pilates move, but it seems to help whittle things down.

The other one I use is lying flat on my back on the bed, top of my head right at the edge, and raising and lowering a 15 lb dumbell with both arms behind me. Just bring it parallel with the mattress then bring it back up keeping your arms straight. Don't put your head over the side of the bed.
added
I usually do 3 sets of twelve reps of this one. Next week I'm increasing the weight to 20 lbs.