How to get great abs...

(as heard on Calvary 88.5 FM 1/26/10)

The most frequent fitness question I’m asked as a trainer is “how do I get flat abs.” Unfortunately, there is no way to spot-train one area of the body. But here are a few tricks to not only tone up the tummy but to decrease fat all over the body.

1. Reduce your daily caloric intake with the focus on vegetables, whole grains and lean protein. Click here for more information about how to figure out how many calories you need to eat to lose weight.
2. Incorporate a full body strength routine including abdominal exercises 2-3 times a week. Some of the most effective abdominal exercises are superman back extensions, planks, bicycles and oblique v-ups.
3. Do moderate to intense cardiovascular workouts 3-5 times a week. Make sure that you are working in the top part of your target heart rate.

**To find your target heart rate, start by taking 220 minus your age. This number will be your maximum heart rate. Your THR is between 55% and 85% or your maximum heart rate. Therefore, take your maximum heart rate and multiply it by .55 and .85 and there you go...your very own target heart rate! You can measure your heart rate on most pieces of aerobic equipment or by using a heart rate monitor (ranging from $20-$150 at Target, Wal-mart, Dick's Sporting Goods, etc).