Getting rid of excess belly fat is essential for your overall health and well-being.<\/p>\n
As you age, it\u2019s natural to lose muscle mass unless you take the necessary steps to preserve it. That said, even those who eat a nutritious diet and remain active may notice changes as time passes because aging impacts body composition\u2014not just your weight. One common change is belly fat\u2014and it\u2019s crucial to address for your long-term health and well-being.<\/p>\n
\u201cBelly overhang becomes more common after 60 because of a combination of hormonal, muscular and age-related changes not simply because of weight gain,\u201d explains<\/p>\n
Nicolle Lopez- Lamberty<\/a>, Certified Pilates Instructor and Founder & CEO of NuPilates. \u201cIn women, testosterone levels begin to decline in their 30s leading to decreased muscle strength and muscle mass. After menopause, estrogen levels decrease causing the body to store more fat around the abdomen rather than the hips and thighs. At the same time, women naturally lose muscle mass which slows metabolism and reduces the body\u2019s ability to support the core.\u201d<\/p>\n An apron belly<\/a>\u2014or panniculus\u2014is associated with serious health concerns like cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes<\/a>. Carrying around excess belly fat<\/a> can also place strain on your lower back.<\/p>\n \u201cQuestions around core strength<\/a> and abdominal support come up almost every day with my clients, particularly those who have had children or are entering midlife,\u201d explains Lizzie Gunderson<\/a>, the Founder of LIZZIEVSTHEWORLD, a Pilates coaching business that helps women move better and feel stronger. Gunderson is certified in Balanced Body 1, 2 & 3 Mat Pilates, and she coaches out of Bloomington, IN and Indianapolis, IN.6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e<\/p>\n \u201cMy approach is always about building real strength rather than chasing quick fixes or \u2018flat stomach\u2019 promises. When the deep core is working well, posture improves, movement feels easier and the whole midsection has better support,\u201d Gunderson adds.<\/p>\n We\u2019re here to share six daily exercises you can add to your routine that can help firm belly overhang faster than yoga after 60.<\/p>\n \tHeel Slides<\/p>\n \u201cThis is one of my favorites because it teaches the deep core to stay engaged while the legs move. It\u2019s gentle, accessible and builds the kind of stability that carries over into everyday life,\u201d Gunderson says.<\/p>\n Start by lying flat on your back with your legs on the mattress.
\nPlace your arms at your sides and gently press your lower back into the mattress.
\nSlide one heel back toward your hips before lengthening it back out.<\/p>\n