I had my second baby eight months ago. I've watched what I eat, and I've been exercising four or five days per week doing cardio and strength training. I have lost inches in my thighs and butt, and really toned up my arms, but none of the pregnancy weight on my midsection has come off, no matter how hard I work. My belly and love handles bulge out of the top of my jeans even though my lower half looks slim and toned. It looks like I've lost my curves and I hate it. Help?
From Fitness Magazine
Question: "I had my second baby eight months ago. I've watched what I eat, and I've been exercising four or five days per week doing cardio and strength training. I have lost inches in my thighs and butt, and really toned up my arms, but none of the pregnancy weight on my midsection has come off, no matter how hard I work. My belly and love handles bulge out of the top of my jeans even though my lower half looks slim and toned. It looks like I've lost my curves and I hate it. Help?" Submitted by ortalkavon
Question: "I had my second baby eight months ago. I've watched what I eat, and I've been exercising four or five days per week doing cardio and strength training. I have lost inches in my thighs and butt, and really toned up my arms, but none of the pregnancy weight on my midsection has come off, no matter how hard I work. My belly and love handles bulge out of the top of my jeans even though my lower half looks slim and toned. It looks like I've lost my curves and I hate it. Help?" Submitted by ortalkavon
Expert Answer
Here's what we got from exercise physiologist and fitness expert Dr. Kara Mohr:
"My daughter turns 1 yr old this Saturday - so I know where you are coming from. Post baby body weight does not equal post baby body!! I would suggest increasing the intensity of your cardio workouts, making sure you include intervals (alternating walking with fast walking or sprinting). And be sure your strength training includes combination moves that work multiple muscles including the core (plank rows, push-ups, squat with military press, etc) rather than single muscle groups. Good luck!"
"My daughter turns 1 yr old this Saturday - so I know where you are coming from. Post baby body weight does not equal post baby body!! I would suggest increasing the intensity of your cardio workouts, making sure you include intervals (alternating walking with fast walking or sprinting). And be sure your strength training includes combination moves that work multiple muscles including the core (plank rows, push-ups, squat with military press, etc) rather than single muscle groups. Good luck!"
Most Helpful Community Answers
"I used Jillian Michaels No More Trouble Zones. This video will tighten your mid section. It really works if you stick with it: I lost over 80 pounds (droped from a size 18 to a size 2). I worked out 4-5 days for over a year, and still feel like i'm dying each time I work out with this video." Submitted by karengibson901
"Try lying on the floor, facing up, and do double and single leg raises (30 counts each) on daily basis. Do two sessions per day: one in morning, one before bedtime. Intially, start with 20 counts each and slowly increase to 30 counts each when your stamina allows. You should be able to see the results in 3 months time." Submitted by chewhuichin
"They say that belly fat is the most challenging part to tighten up, especially after giving birth. I had the same problem a couple months back, and I'm loving my progress on that zone. What worked for me was to religiously do core workout at least four times per week, plus isolating exercises for obliques and the rectus abdominis. Another key is that I change or modify my work out every 2 weeks. Now, I've lost 6 inches on my waist and I'm wearing a size 0-2. Good Luck! :D" Submitted by Glam_Aiye_NYC
"Try lying on the floor, facing up, and do double and single leg raises (30 counts each) on daily basis. Do two sessions per day: one in morning, one before bedtime. Intially, start with 20 counts each and slowly increase to 30 counts each when your stamina allows. You should be able to see the results in 3 months time." Submitted by chewhuichin
"They say that belly fat is the most challenging part to tighten up, especially after giving birth. I had the same problem a couple months back, and I'm loving my progress on that zone. What worked for me was to religiously do core workout at least four times per week, plus isolating exercises for obliques and the rectus abdominis. Another key is that I change or modify my work out every 2 weeks. Now, I've lost 6 inches on my waist and I'm wearing a size 0-2. Good Luck! :D" Submitted by Glam_Aiye_NYC
