We all want an hourglass figure, but how to achieve it? My dear, I can help. I’ve been chatting up my personal trainer (between sets of course) and he’s got loads of advice to share. Here are 8 amazing tips for a slim waist… step one in your quest for an hourglass shape!
1. Bust the Myth
There’s a myth that’s so persistent, it’s damaged the resolve of even the most dedicated dieter. It must be busted, so let’s get it out of the way now: there is NO WAY to lose weight in just ONE AREA of your body. That includes, of course, losing weight or slimming just your tummy or waist. It is possible to lose weight and tone all over, including your waist, though. Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s continue!
2. Watch What You Eat
There is no good way to lose weight for good, and keep it off, without following a healthy diet. Eat five small, well-balanced meals a day, focusing on whole grains, fresh fruits and veggies, and lean proteins, and avoid fatty foods with loads of empty calories.
3. Watch What You Drink, Too!
While you’re watching what you drink, to get your hourglass figure, also watch what you eat! Did you know one Double Chocolaty Chip Frappuccino from Starbucks contains 500 calories? That’s about the number of calories you ought to consume in one entire meal… wow!
4. Exercise Regularly
Just like there’s no good way to lose weight or get a slim waist without a healthy diet, you also can’t do it without regular, strenuous exercise. Any product or pill that tells you otherwise is flat out lying, so don’t be scammed. Plan to exercise four days a week, for about an hour each day, to get, and keep, your hourglass figure.
5. Work Your Core
While you need to get your cardio, for sure, you also need to focus on working and strengthening your core if you want a slim waist. Your core is more than just your abs, and is actually key for more than slimming your waist - it’s also great for ending back pain, for toning your abs, and for improving your posture, among other things.
6. The Balance Ball is Your Friend
How to work your core? Keeping slightly off-balance is key, and a good way to do that during your calisthenics is to use a balance ball or Bosu Ball. While you’re doing the same exercise as you would without the ball, using the ball forces your core to kick in to keep you from tipping… marvelous!
7. Crunch Time!
And yes, if you want a slim waist, you’re going to have to do the dreaded crunches. But guess what? They can actually be fun! There are so many types to try… my favorites are the decline bench sit-backs (not sit-ups) and the decline bench twist crunches… and the plain old crunch on a balance ball!
8. Focus Your Fashion
Even the fittest girl will look like she has a muffin top if she’s wearing jeans that are too small. Be careful when clothes shopping, especially for jeans. If you’re unsure what size to buy, get an honest opinion from a friend, or ask a shop clerk to help fit you. It also helps to go with European sizing, which tends to be more honest, and less fickle, than US sizing. Now that you have a slim waist, show it off in jeans that fit!
With so many valid tips on getting, and keeping, a slim waist, you’ll have your hourglass shape in no time. Which of these tips did you find most helpful? Or do you have another tried-and-true tip for a slim waist? Please share!
Top Image Source: weheartit.com
Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I naturally slim my waist?
- Focus on a balanced diet, regular exercise, and staying hydrated to help reduce waist size naturally.
- Which exercises are best for a slim waist?
- Core exercises like planks, bicycle crunches, and side bends effectively tone waist muscles.
- Does drinking water help with slimming the waist?
- Yes, staying hydrated aids digestion and reduces bloating, contributing to a slimmer waist.
- Can I target fat loss only around my waist?
- Spot reduction is a myth; overall weight loss through diet and exercise will reduce waist fat.
- How important is diet in achieving a slim waist?
- A healthy, balanced diet low in processed foods and sugars is crucial for trimming your waistline.
- How often should I work out for a slimmer waist?
- Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week to see results.
- Are waist trainers effective for slimming the waist?
- Waist trainers may shape temporarily but don't provide lasting fat loss or health benefits.
- Can stress affect my waist size?
- Yes, stress can increase cortisol levels, leading to fat accumulation around the waist.
- Is cardio better than strength training for a slim waist?
- Combining both cardio and strength training offers the best results for waist slimming.
- How long does it take to see a slimmer waist?
- With consistent effort, you may notice changes in 4 to 6 weeks, depending on your routine and body.