Alison Sweeney's Ultimate Flat-Belly Tricks

Cutout dresses don't scare The Biggest Loser host, because she's studied up on what tones that tough midsection. Learn from a master. By Ali Sweeney, REDBOOK.


I used to have a really strong, flat stomach that I took for granted. Then one day, I looked in the mirror and thought, I remember when I could wear midriff shirts and not have a problem. What's happening? Well, for one, pregnancy happened--twice. It takes time to strengthen muscles that have gotten all stretched out. But then I picked up some tricks from the pros on The Biggest Loser. Their advice, plus my own trial and error, can help any woman who wants a flatter belly.

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Your cheat sheet for a slimmer, sexier stomach:


1. Mix up your ab exercises

A lot of us think of the stomach as one muscle, but it's not. That's why traditional sit-ups--which only work the front, middle part of your stomach--aren't the most effective way to tone up. One of my favorite ab moves is simply lying down and standing up, because it works your whole core: Lie face up with your arms overhead, then pull your knees to your chest and use momentum to stand up without using your hands. I also have Bob Harper's Inside Out yoga DVD; it's an amazing ab workout.

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2. Stick to anti-bloat foods

You can't "spot reduce" fat on your belly, so if you want to lose your pooch, you need to eat for a leaner body overall. But when it's crunch time--say, I'm preparing for a bikini shoot--I'll make proteins and veggies the focus of my diet and go easy on the carbs. If I do eat them, I make sure they're the high-fiber kind, like oatmeal. And avoid salty foods (they'll make you hold on to water weight, which will hide your muscles) and carbonated drinks; bubbles in your drink mean bubbles in your belly.

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3. Do what you can--and love what you've got

When I'm running or taking a spin class, I focus on my core instead of relying on my legs to do all the work. I even try to engage my stomach muscles when I'm sitting in the car or at the computer. Knowing I'm doing what I can gives me the confidence to flaunt my abs (yes, even in a cutout dress). My 5-year-old daughter is a great role model this way: She's always patting her little belly proudly. Take a cue from her and embrace what you've got. If you're paying attention to your tummy in a positive way-exercising and eating right--it's probably a lot cuter than you give it credit for.


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