Focusing on deep core support as you age is key, first and foremost.<\/p>\n
Planning morning workouts can be a total game-changer\u2014especially after 55. Your hormones shift, muscle mass declines, metabolism slows down, and visceral fat<\/a> accumulates in the midsection. Consistent exercise is essential, and the morning is an excellent time to avoid distractions. Here are four morning exercises<\/a> that will flatten your belly pooch<\/a> after 55, according to a fitness and wellness pro.<\/p>\n \u201cAfter 55, the goal isn\u2019t just \u2018abs.\u2019 It\u2019s deep core support and posture,\u201d explains Karen Ann Canham, CEO and founder of Karen Ann Wellness<\/a>, Board-Certified Wellness Coach, and Nervous System Specialist who has almost two decades of experience in wellness.6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e<\/p>\n Muscles to prioritize include the pelvic floor, transverse abdominis (TVA), glutes, and multifidus. When all of these muscles are strengthened, your lower abs<\/a> appear tight even before you lose body fat.<\/p>\n \u201cThe biggest mistake is doing endless crunches and assuming spot reduction works,\u201d Canham adds. \u201cCrunches target the superficial rectus abdominis but ignore the deep stabilizers that actually hold the abdomen in. They also increase abdominal pressure, which can worsen bulging if the TVA and pelvic floor are weak.\u201d<\/p>\n After 55, it\u2019s important to focus on rebuilding muscle and working on alignment. These are the best morning exercises Canham recommends to get started.<\/p>\n \tGlute Bridges<\/p>\n \u201cGlute bridges strengthen the hips and correct pelvic tilt, which reduces lower belly projection,\u201d Canham tells us.<\/p>\n Lie flat on your back with bent knees and feet hip-width apart on the floor, arms at your sides with palms pressing into the ground.
\nPress through your heels to lift your hips until your body forms a straight line from head to heels.
\nSqueeze your buttocks, holding at the top for 2 seconds.
\nLower your hips back to the start position.
\nPerform 2 to 3 sets of 10 to 12 reps.<\/p>\n