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Fitness & Workouts

5 Best Exercises for “Bra Bulge” After 50

Try the workout and useful lifestyle habits.

Leah Groth
By Leah GrothApr 10, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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chrisfreytag/Instagram
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothApr 10, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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Fitness & Workouts

Chris Freytag is a fitness and lifestyle influencer and the founder of Get Healthy U, a comprehensive fitness hub. In a recent viral video she gets real about bra bulge. “Yup - It happens as we age 🤪 Skin loosens and you feel like you get a little ‘spill over’ from your bra. Call it back fat, bra bulge, or whatever you want but by strengthening your back muscles, you will stand taller and tighten and tone!” she says. “I love to work my back - the exercises feel powerful!” Here is everything you need to know about the workout – and her other lifestyle habits.

Here Is the Workout

“Do each exercise 15 reps and repeat 2 times,” she recommends. “Do this workout 3 times a week and progress to heavier weights if you don’t feel muscle fatigue!!”

1️⃣ Reverse Grip Row

2️⃣ Single Arm Row

3️⃣ Straight Arm Press Back

4️⃣ Renegade Rows

5️⃣ Overhead Pulls

Workout Buddies

Chris_Freytag3chrisfreytag/Instagram

In another post, Chris emphasizes the importance of workout buddies. “Increase your chance of success when it comes to reaching your fitness goals!!” she writes. “Maybe you have a friend you workout with or a family member who keeps you going. Maybe you have a gym with a squad you connect with. OR Maybe it’s an online group that motivates and inspires you!”

RELATED:9 Easy Ways to Lose Weight Without Diets

Strength Training

Chris is a big fan of strength training. “Ladies – if you want that ‘lean and toned’ 💪 look, you are going to have to life weights and eat adequate protein! There is no way to build muscle besides doing the work! 

So many women complain they are getting flabby but the only way to change that is to lift weights. And guess what there are so many benefits to lifting weights as we age,” she wrote, listing the benefits, which include building self-confidence, getting through menopause easier, strengthening bones, burning more calories at rest, and improving energy and metabolism.

Consistency

Chris_Freytag2chrisfreytag/Instagram

In another post she revealed that “the secret to success” with exercise is staying consistent. “Consistency starts by taking action! Showing up for yourself each and every day, even when you may not feel “motivated” to do so. Show up, sound the best you can and feeling accomplished when it’s all said and done!” she writes. “Consistency is NOT about pushing yourself to extreme measures or neglecting rest days! Consistency IS NOT what you do once, but it IS what you do repeatedly!”

RELATED: Jeremy Ethier Reveals 3 Top Exercises for Perfect Glutes

Yoga

Woman,Practicing,Warrior,Yoga,Pose,Outdoors,Over,Sunset,Sky,.Shutterstock

Chris also shares a lot of yoga workouts on her page. Why should you do yoga? According to Harvard Health, there is research backing up the many benefits. One study found that people who practiced yoga for at least 30 minutes once a week for at least four years gained less weight during middle adulthood. “People who were overweight actually lost weight. Overall, those who practiced yoga had lower body mass indexes (BMIs) compared with those who did not practice yoga. Researchers attributed this to mindfulness. Mindful eating can lead to a more positive relationship with food and eating,” they said.

💪🔥Body Booster: You don’t have to settle for back! Doing a few targeted exercises can help tighten sagging skin and fat.

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Fitness & Workouts

4 Ab Exercises I Swear By for a Flatter Stomach After 40

Petra Genco
Copyright petragenco/Instagram
Alek Korab
By Alek KorabOct 15, 2024
Alek Korab
Editor
Alek Korab is Founding Editor of Body Network
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Fact-Checked

Our content is fact checked by our senior editorial staff to reflect accuracy and ensure our readers get sound information and advice to make the smartest, healthiest choices.

We adhere to structured guidelines for sourcing information and linking to other resources, including scientific studies and medical journals.

If you have any concerns about the accuracy of our content, please reach out to our editors by e-mailing editors@bodynetwork.com.

As we age, our bodies change. Weight seems to accumulate more easily, especially around the midsection, and losing it becomes increasingly challenging. If you've found yourself in this frustrating situation, you're not alone. Petra Genco, a coach specializing in helping women over 40 lose weight and regain their confidence, understands this struggle firsthand. After successfully shedding 30 pounds herself, Petra now shares her expertise to help other women achieve similar results.

The Science Behind Weight Loss

Before diving into specific exercises, it's important to understand the fundamentals of weight loss. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says, "For overall health, adults need at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity." They also note that "Physical activity is important if you are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. More physical activity increases the number of calories your body uses for energy."

Why Standing Ab Exercises Are Perfect for Women Over 40

"We're going to be covering four standing ab exercises," Petra begins her post. "These exercises are easy to do, so don't worry if you can't do floor sit-ups or crunches. The following four exercises are really effective and will pull that tummy in. A great bonus is that you don't have to get up and down off the floor, and you can do them anywhere."

RELATED: I'm 70 but Look 40 After Sculpting My Body with 2 Unexpected Exercises

Adapting to Age-Related Changes

Petra acknowledges the challenges many women face: "As we know, our bodies change as we get older. We've had kids, we're on, or we have been on the menopause, and things just don't work as they used to. So we need to exercise differently." Her approach focuses on exercises that "strengthen your core, give you a flatter stomach, and if you add in a good healthy diet, you'll start to get a strong stomach and lose that fat too."

The Importance of Commitment and Goal-Setting

The CDC underlines the importance of commitment in weight loss: "Whether you have a family history of heart disease or want to feel better in your clothes, write down why you want to lose weight. Writing it down can confirm your commitment." They also recommend setting realistic goals: "Set short-term goals and reward your efforts along the way. Maybe your long-term goal is to lose 40 pounds and to control your high blood pressure. Short-term goals might include drinking water instead of sugary beverages, taking a 15-minute evening walk, or having a vegetable with supper."

Standing Crunches: Target Your Stubborn Lower Belly

"This exercise works all your muscles at the front and is great for that stubborn lower belly that just won't shift," Petra explains. To perform this exercise, stand with feet hip-width apart, raise your arms straight up, then lift one knee while pulling your arms down into a crunch position. "Squeeze your stomach all the time and keep it slow and controlled," Petra advises. Aim for 30 reps, but start with 3 sets of 10 if needed.

RELATED:I’m a Strength Coach, and Here Are 6 Foods I Will Never Eat

Elbow to Knee: Challenge Your Core Rotation

"This exercise challenges the rotation of our core, working the transverse muscles here at the side," says Petra. Start with your feet hip-width apart, your hands by your ears. In a twisting motion, touch your elbow to the opposite knee. Petra emphasizes, "As always, keep your stomach really strong throughout the whole exercise." Work up to 30 reps, starting with smaller sets if necessary.

The Role of Physical Activity in Weight Management

The CDC states, "Using calories through physical activity, combined with reducing the calories you eat, creates a calorie deficit that results in weight loss." They also note that "Most weight loss occurs from decreasing calories. However, the only way to maintain weight loss is to engage in regular physical activity."

Toe Touches: Engage Your Abs and Legs

Petra reassures, "Don't worry if you can't touch your toes. Touching your knee or your shin is just as good." She describes the movement: "Standing with your feet hip-distance apart, lift your left leg and touch with your right hand, then repeat." Petra adds, "I really like this exercise. It's simple but effective. If you do this exercise properly, slowly, and controlled, you can really feel your abdominal muscles contract. And also, the great thing about this exercise is that it works your legs as well."

RELATED: I Lost 48 Pounds Walking 3 Miles a Day

Forward Punches: Boost Your Fitness and Core Strength

"Again, like the elbow to knee exercise, they're working the transverse muscles or these here at the side," Petra explains. Stand with feet wider apart and soft knees, then punch from side to side. "Squeeze that stomach as we twist and stretch your arms as if you're trying to touch the other side of the room," she instructs. Petra enthuses, "I really love this exercise. It's great for fitness. It gets the heart going, and it gets a sweat on."

Combining Exercises for a Quick, Effective Workout

Petra recommends combining these four exercises into a 5-minute workout routine. "To recap, you're going to put all of these four exercises together, and it will give you a nice five-minute workout to get your stomach looking trim," she says. Do 30 reps of each exercise with a quick rest between moves. "Remember, if you want real results and you have to stay consistent with this workout and to make it easier for you, why don't you put on your favorite music whilst you do it," Petra suggests.

The Benefits of Core Strengthening

Petra reminds us about the importance of these exercises: "By strengthening, tightening, and toning our core, you'll reduce the risk of back pain and injuries, so you'll also be able to move around so much easier. A strong core will also help your pelvis, your lower back, and your hip muscles giving you better balance and less likely to fall over." This aligns with the CDC's statement that "Regular physical activity provides immediate and long-term health benefits. Being physically active can improve your brain health. Other benefits include stronger bones and muscles and better ability to perform everyday activities."

RELATED: I Replaced These 10 “Clean” Foods and I’ve Never Looked Better

Achieving Long-Term Results

"To lose weight around your belly, increase your daily activity, reduce the amount of time you spend sitting and follow a healthy diet," Petra advises. She adds, "Keep in mind it's best to focus on your core abdominal strength instead of craving that six-pack stomach."

The CDC recommends continually monitoring your progress: "Revisit your goals and evaluate your progress regularly. Decide which parts of your plan are working well and which parts need to be changed. Use this information to revise your goals and plan."

By incorporating these exercises into your routine 2-3 times a week, along with increased daily activity and a healthy diet, you can start to see results in your waistline, health, and overall strength. With consistency and dedication, these standing ab exercises can help you achieve a flatter stomach and improved core strength, proving that it's never too late to get back into shape and feel great again. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 31 Fitness Tips Every Beginner Needs to Look Sexy, According to Coaches.

Fitness & Workouts

5 Daily Moves to Boost Bone Density After 50

Dr_Lisa_Folden_WeShape17
Copyright WeShape/YouTube
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothAug 20, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Dr. Lisa Folden is a physical therapist and body image coach who contributes to WeShape, a company devoted to helping people feel comfortable in their bodies. In one viral video, she offers five easy exercises that you can do at any age. “If you're a woman aged 51, I have five exercises you should be doing every single day to help keep you strong and build good bone density,” she says at the start of the video.

During Menopause, Hormones Change, and Bone Density Decreases

“You might wonder why 51? Well, that is the average onset of menopause for most women, and with menopause comes changing hormones and decreasing bone density, which makes us more at risk for falls and fractures. We don't need that,” she says in the video.

5 Exercises to Improve Bone Density

Sporty mature woman in sportswear and earphones looking at camera while jogging in a green park on a sunny summer dayShutterstock

“So follow me along for these five exercises, which are weight bearing and body weight exercises to help you maintain good bone density,” she says.

1. Wall Sit

wall sit exerciseShutterstock

The first one is a wall sit. “You're going to get against a wall and rest your back. Walk your feet maybe 12 to 24 inches away from the wall based on your height. And then you're going to lower your body down until your knees are bent to about 90 degrees,” she says.

Engage Your Core

Beautiful mature senior woman at home, domestic life and leisure moments - 50-60 years old pretty female adult wearing sportswear eating healthy food after fitness workoutShutterstock

“You're going to engage your core and simply hold here. Try holding for 30 seconds and repeating this five times,” she continues. “You'll feel a good burn in your quads, and your bones will definitely get the benefit of this load-bearing exercise.”

RELATED:I Got Into the Best Shape of My Life at 50 by Following These 6 "Basics"

2. Mini Squats

Senior woman stretching, online training in living room. Balancing yoga exercise. Exercising for emotional and spiritual health. Well-being, wellness for retired female. Domestic yoga practiceShutterstock

The following exercise is a mini squat. “You're going to get in a position where your feet are about hip-width apart or just wider, and your feet are slightly turned out. You're going to engage your core, and you're just going to bend and come up to standing.”

Squeeze Glutes While Keeping Core Engaged

Strength in teamwork. Two young attractive female athletes exercise on the beach doing squats with a sunrise and ocean in the background. The focus is soft and dreamy.Shutterstock

“And we're not going down low, but every time we come up, we're squeezing the glutes, we're keeping our core engaged,” she says. “We're keeping our posture upright and tall, not bending over. Try to do 10 to 12 reps here, and if it feels good, repeat that twice.”

3. Deadlift

Older women Body Warming Before exercising in the parkShutterstock

The following exercise is a deadlift. “You're going to stand with your feet about hip-width apart. Your knees are really soft, not locked back. You're going to engage your core, and you're going to hinge forward at your waist, keeping your spine straight. Then you're going to activate your glutes and your hamstrings to bring you back up to standing, squeezing,” she says.

Again, Engage Your Core

Young girl showing sporty belly against the sea on the beachShutterstock

“You're going to repeat that motion down back is tall. The squeezing core is engaged. Try doing 10 to 12 of these and see how they feel. This is going to give you a great workout to your glutes and your hamstrings,” she says.

4. Side Step Squat

Smiling senior woman making squat exercise at home, active sporty elderly lady training on her yoga mat, smiling during fitness workout in her airy, well-lit living room, copy spaceShutterstock

Exercise number four is called a side-step squat. She recommends getting to the end of your mat, with feet hip-width apart, and getting down into a mini squat. “Engage the core, and you're going to quickly step to the side, maintaining good distance between your feet and staying low the entire time,” she says.

Engage the Core

outdoor portrait of a beautiful middle aged blonde woman. attractive sexy girl in a field with flowersShutterstock

“You can do this for about 30 seconds. You'll feel the burn, and you'll get all the benefits of this great load-bearing exercise,” she explains.

RELATED:I'm 50+, and These 7 Fat-Blasting Habits Keep Me in the Best Shape of My Life

5. Wall Pushup

Sporty woman doing press ups against a white wall outside.Shutterstock

“The last exercise is a wall pushup. You are gonna go to a wall, get your hands just below shoulder height and step away from the wall so that you're in a plank position,” she says.

Engage Your Core

positive woman stretching outdoors preparing for exercise in sportswearShutterstock

“Engage your core so that your pelvis isn't tilted forward or tucked too far under you, lower yourself down using your arms, and push yourself away. Maintain good form. Keep your chin and repeat 10 to 15 times,” she explains.

Do These Exercises at Least Twice a Week

Group of multiethnic mature people stretching arms outdoor. Middle aged yoga class doing breathing exercise at park. Beautifil women and fit men doing breath exercise together with outstretched arms.Shutterstock

“Do all five of these exercises a couple of times a week. And as you're approaching menopause, you will see the benefits of improved bone density and overall strength,” she says.

RELATED: I Lost Inches From My Waist on Ozempic and Here Are 15 Weight Loss Tips I Have for You

Menopause Speeds Up Bone Loss

Mature woman workout before fitness training session at home.Shutterstock

According to the Endocrine Society, menopause significantly speeds up bone loss and increases the risk of osteoporosis. “Research indicates that up to 20% of bone loss can happen during these stages, and approximately 1 in 10 women over the age of 60 are affected by osteoporosis worldwide,” they say.

Exercise and Diet Can Make a Big Difference

While there are drugs to treat this, exercise and diet can make a big difference. “A customized exercise regimen supports proper maintenance of the skeleton, including resistance, balance, and weight-bearing exercises,” they say. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 20 Superfoods for People Over 50.

Fitness & Workouts

10 Balance Exercises For Stability After 50

Jessica Valant
Copyright jessicasvalant/Instagram
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackFeb 08, 2025
Christopher Roback
Professional Health, Science Editor and Writer
Christopher Roback is an experienced news journalist specializing in political, science, and crime news.
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Balance becomes increasingly crucial as we age, and the statistics are eye-opening. Research shows that people over 50 who can't balance on one leg for just 10 seconds face twice the mortality risk in the following decade. Physical therapistJessica Valant, with over 25 years of experience in rehabilitation and movement training, has developed a straightforward 10-minute routine to help improve your stability. As a respected PT, Pilates instructor, and women's health expert reaching over 800K YouTube subscribers, Jessica emphasizes that better balance is achievable at any age. These exercises, which you can do right in your own home, could significantly improve your stability and confidence in daily activities.

Understanding Balance and Why It Matters

"Balance happens when we include many different parts of what's going on," Jessica explains. "We have strength, we have mobility happening. It includes our eyesight, our vestibular system." This comprehensive approach to balance training addresses all these components, making it particularly effective for adults looking to maintain or improve their stability.

Setting Up Your Safe Practice Space

One of the best aspects of this routine is its simplicity. "All you need is a chair or a kitchen counter or a bathroom counter or a wall or anything close to hang on to," Jessica says. She emphasizes that wearing supportive shoes is perfectly fine, especially if you have any foot concerns.

RELATED: 3 Simple Stretches Made This Coach More Flexible in 2 Weeks

Foundation Exercise One Toe Raises

The routine begins with toe raises, a fundamental movement for ankle strength. Standing with feet hip-width apart, rise onto your toes and lower back down. "I want you to work on doing this without holding on to anything at all," Jessica advises, though she recommends starting with support if needed. For an extra challenge, try closing your eyes during the movement.

Building Knee and Hip Stability

"When falls happen, a lot of times they'll happen stepping off a curb or going downstairs," Jessica notes. To address this, she introduces mini squats. These aren't deep squats but rather gentle knee bends that improve mobility in your hips, knees, and ankles – all crucial for preventing falls.

Mastering Single-Leg Balance

The critical test of balance is standing on one leg. Jessica guides through this gradually: "This is called a single leg balance, but also we're doing a little bit of weight shifting. We're teaching that left leg how to hold the weight on its own." Start by holding onto support and work toward independence.

Dynamic Balance Through Marching

Slow marching exercises simulate real-world movements. "Try not to look down at your feet when you're doing this," Jessica instructs. "The more we kind of hunch and try to walk like this, the more likely we are to fall." Keep your posture tall and eyes forward.

RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

Lateral Stability Training

Side leg lifts add another dimension to balance training. "The sneaky part as a physical therapist, what I'm making you do right now is hold your weight on that left leg," Jessica reveals. This strengthens the standing leg while improving side-to-side stability.

Advanced Hip Mobility Work

The hip circle exercise combines lifting, opening, and lowering movements. As Jessica explains, "This is a lot of hip mobility, which believe it or not, really good for our balance and just for overall health in those joints." This movement builds both mobility and strength.

Essential Ankle Mobility

Calf stretches are crucial for maintaining ankle flexibility. Jessica demonstrates how to stretch while maintaining proper alignment, emphasizing the importance of keeping the back heel down and maintaining tall posture.

RELATED:12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster

Progressive Challenge Training

"This isn't a single day workout to fix everything," Jessica emphasizes. "This is the long game." The routine concludes with balance challenges that can be progressively made more difficult, such as closing your eyes during exercises when you're ready. Always prioritize safety and work within your comfort level.

Jessica's repeats her key message: "You can do it every single day, or again, just pick and choose pieces of it to do at your kitchen counter anytime during the day to help your own balance, meet your body where it is and know that long-term you are doing something good for yourself." And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week

Fitness & Workouts

I’m 70 but Look 40 Thanks to These 7 At-Home Exercises

Liz_Hilliard19
Copyright Liz Hilliard
Leah Groth
By Leah GrothOct 21, 2024
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
See Full Bio
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FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
✓Expert-Recommended

We've consulted with our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians to bring you informed recommendations for food products, health aids and nutritional goods to safely and successfully guide you toward making better diet and nutrition choices. We strive to only recommend products that adhere to our philosophy of eating better while still enjoying what you eat.

Starting to exercise when you are older can seem overwhelming. However, it doesn’t have to be. In fact, a few simple exercises can help you achieve your dream body, according to one fitness expert. Liz Hilliard, 70, looks half her age and seems to know the secret to longevity. The pilates instructor, who trains out of her studio, Hilliard Studio Method, recently spoke to Body Network and revealed her top 7 exercises for staying in shape – and you can do all of them at home.

Plank

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

Her first exercise is the plank. “It can be done on the forearms or with straight arms and either supported on the knees or with straight legs,” she says. What are the benefits? “Strong Core for strength of the spine and flattened abdominals,” she says.

Push Ups

Hilliard Studio Method | ALL IN HAUSCopyright Liz Hilliard

Her second exercise is an old-school push-up. “Can be achieved with legs straight or knees on the floor,” she says. Never done a push-up? “Begin by leaning against a wall at an angle with your hands slightly wider than your chest. Bend your elbows, taking your chest to elbow level to protect your shoulders while simultaneously strengthening them. A pushup is simply a moving plank that engages your core muscles and strengthens your upper body and back as well.”

RELATED: 5 Signs Your Weight Gain Is Hormonal and How to Fix It

Bicep Curls with Squats

Liz Hilliard-The bicep curl with squatsCopyright Liz Hilliard

Next up, bicep curls with squats “using either light hand weights or resistance bands,” she says.

“Stand with your core engaged, then bend your knees while pushing your seat back as if to sit in a chair, simultaneously bending at the elbows and adding a bicep curl.”

Rows

Liz-Hilliard-RowCopyright Liz Hilliard

Another beneficial exercise is rowing with either hand weights or resistance bands. “Stand with your core connected, hinging your body at the waist forward with weights or resistance bands in hand, then rowing from straight arms low to high by bending your elbows close to your side waist, feeling the back muscles engage and strengthen,” she says.

Note: when using resistance bands, stand evenly on top of them, holding the ends in your hand where you can control the amount of resistance.

Tricep Dips

Liz Hilliard-tricep dipsCopyright Liz Hilliard

Next, triceps dips “utilizing gravity as your mode of resistance,” she says. “Sit on the floor with your hands facing forward just behind you, engage your core to lift your bottom off the floor, then simply bend and extend elbows 8 to 12 times to strengthen and sculpt your triceps (back of your arms.” You can also sit on a chair, shifting forward until your seat is suspended in the air with knees bent and feet flat on the floor, then bend and straighten elbows 8 to 12 times.

Quadriceps

Liz Hilliard-quadsCopyright Liz Hilliard

Quadriceps are also great. “Stand with heels together, toes apart at a 45-degree angle. Bend knees, traveling hips straight down toward the heels, keeping your knees in line with toes, never sinking below knee level or to a point where you feel stress on the knee joints,” she says. “Slowly travel down and back up 8 to 12 repetitions.” She notes that this is best done with one hand against a wall until you build the core and leg strength to do without support.

RELATED: I Lost 30 Pounds in 5 Months After Making This 1 Simple Change

Hamstrings Utilizing Hip Lifts

Liz Hilliard-HamstringsCopyright Liz Hilliard

Her last exercise is hamstrings utilizing hip lifts. “Lie flat on the floor with knees bent and feet under your knees. Engage your core with a slight pelvic tilt to lift your hips off the ground. Keep your head and shoulders on the ground lower, and lift your hips 8 to 12 times. Then, hold at the top and do 8 to 12 gentle tucks of the hips to fully engage the back of the legs and buttocks. To advance this hamstring exercise, lift one leg in the air while keeping your hips level so you can focus on one leg at a time,” she says.

She Also Does Pilates

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

Pilates is Hilliard’s main form of fitness, which she discovered when she was 48 “and immediately felt incredibly challenged. I even had fun, which led me to become certified in Pilates,” she says. In 2002, she opened her first personal Pilates training studio. “It was a successful business, and my clients were seeing real results. However, at age 51, while going through menopause, I noticed despite my Pilates workout, my belly fat was increasing, and my overall strength was decreasing as well, aka flabby arms and sagging bottom.

She Fused Pilates and Strength Training

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

She has found that when combined with strength training, it makes the perfect workout. “Inspired by my daughter, who was getting married and sculpting up for her wedding, I began researching heavy resistance training and hired my own personal trainer to try to sculpt my 51-year-old, menopausal body. We implemented heavy weight training, and I was determined to debunk the ‘bulking’ myth that most women feel about weightlifting,” she added.

RELATED: 4 Simple Ways I Toned My Body Without Shedding a Single Pound

You Can Take Classes at Her Studio

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

“The short story is that adding heavier resistance training to my core-centric Pilates workout began to sculpt my body in ways I hadn’t seen before using only traditional Pilates. That’s when I devised my Method. By incorporating heavy resistance with the core-centric exercises of Pilates, the Hilliard Studio Method was born,” she says. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 31 Fitness Tips Every Beginner Needs to Look Sexy, According to Coaches.

Fitness & Workouts

5 Daily Habits That Melt Body Fat in 30 Days

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​Egg & Cheese McMuffin
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Leah Groth
By Leah GrothMar 26, 2025
Leah Groth
Writer, Editor, and Content Creator
Leah Groth has decades of experience covering all things health, wellness and fitness related.
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Are you trying to shape up this spring? Incorporating a handful of healthy habits will help you achieve your goals. Keith Ozment is a fitness and weight loss coach specializing in helping people over 30 “repair metabolism, build muscle & burn fat!” he writes in his Instagram bio. In a new Instagram video, he reveals his top fat-burning and weight loss habits. “For the next 30 days focus on these 5 things and watch the body fat melt away,” he writes in the post.

Daily Walks

Daily walks are his top habit to add. “Simply walking more is like adding jet fuel to your metabolism!” he says. “Do this: Take a 20-30 min walk 6-7 days a week, or add 3,000 steps to your current daily average. (Every 10 minutes of walking = ~1,000 steps!) Set a timer while you are at work for every hour to go for a 5 min walk. I call these movement snacks! My favorite: Walk for 3 minutes then jog for 1 minute intervals.”

RELATED:12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster

Hydrate

His next habit is hydration. “Water isn’t just for hydration—it impacts weight loss, energy, and gym performance,” he says. “Do this: I want you to purchase a 24 pack of bottled water and grab two bottles on the way out the door each morning. Drink those two bottles before noon every day.”

Track Your Food

Next, start tracking your food. “Simply eating ‘healthier’ isn’t enough. Awareness is key,” he says. “Do this: Use MyFitnessPal to track everything you eat. Most people realize they’re overeating calories and under-eating protein. Awareness = results.”

Plan and Prepare

Planning and preparation is also key. “Failing to plan is planning to fail! Meal prep saves time and keeps you consistent,” he writes. “Do this: Use the meal and recipe discovery section inside My fitness pal to create yourself a meal plan. Use Instacart for grocery delivery or pickup.”

RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

Resistance Training

His final habit for fat loss is resistance training. “Building muscle = burning more calories, even at rest. Plus, it gives you the ‘toned’ look you’re after. Without it? You risk becoming ‘skinny fat,’” he writes. Do this: Train at least 3x a week. Try a simple push, pull, legs split. 3 sets of each. 8-12 reps.

  • Push: Push-ups, chest press, shoulder press, triceps
  • Pull: Deadlifts, pull-ups, bicep curls
  • Legs: Squats, leg extensions, calf raises.
Or.. to simplify it even more, do 25 push-ups and 50 body weight squats every day for 30 days.” And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nutrition & Diet

5 Crucial GLP-1 Tips From Weight Loss Doctor

Dr. Kevin Joseph
Copyright Dr. Kevin Joseph/Youtube/Shutterstock
Alek Korab
By Alek KorabMar 26, 2025
Alek Korab
Editor
Alek Korab is Founding Editor of Body Network
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✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

Struggling to win the battle against stubborn weight despite countless diets and exercise regimens? You're far from alone. For millions facing similar challenges, GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro represent a promising new chapter.

Dr. Kevin Joseph, an internal medicine physician specializing in cellular medicine and longevity, brings a unique dual perspective to this conversation. Having personally lost over 140 pounds using GLP-1 agonists, he combines professional expertise with firsthand experience. Follow his essential first steps to set yourself up for success on your GLP-1 journey.

1. Build a Strong Provider Relationship

The foundation of your GLP-1 success begins with finding the right healthcare partner. "I don't mean a random PCP that your insurance covers. I don't mean going through a telehealth company and having a 10-minute meeting with a physician for a flat fee just to get a prescription," explains Dr. Joseph.

Instead, he emphasizes finding "a provider that you've built a relationship with that knows your body almost as well as you know your body."

RELATED: 15 Things to Know Before Requesting Ozempic for Weight Loss

Your Treatment Should Be Custom-Made

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Dr. Joseph stresses that medicine should be "very individualized" and "fine-tuned and specific for that person." A provider who truly listens to your concerns creates the support structure needed for every step that follows.

Too often, providers brush aside patient complaints, but Dr. Joseph believes this personalized relationship is the foundation for success.

2. Start with the Lowest Effective Dose

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When beginning GLP-1 medications, patience and precision with dosing are crucial. "Go low and go slow," advises Dr. Joseph. "Start at the lowest dose possible that gives you a noticeable benefit."

RELATED:20 Possible Ozempic Side Effects

Watch for These Positive Signs

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For weight loss patients, he recommends finding the minimum dose that either allows you to "see the scale continuously go down" or creates "a noticeable effect on food noise and food intake." This approach, Dr. Joseph explains, "allows you to minimize the side effects while optimizing the benefits and the results."

Consider Micro-dosing Options

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If you're using compounded medication, he notes the potential for more precise micro-dosing, though this should always happen "under the guidance of a healthcare provider." Dr. Joseph has created comprehensive resources on micro-dosing for patients who want to discuss this option with their providers.

3. Trust Your Body's Signals

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No one understands your body better than you do—which is why Dr. Joseph considers listening to these signals a critical step. "If you feel like something is off, please tell me right away," he advises patients.

"Please don't ever feel like even the slightest thing that you know in the back of your head... is off but you don't want to bother me."

RELATED:What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Taking Ozempic

Small Warnings Can Prevent Big Problems

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Dr. Joseph believes these early warnings, combined with medical knowledge, could identify "a big red flag" or "sign of impending issues" that might be addressed proactively.

He underlines that feeling uncomfortable with your dose or experiencing unusual symptoms beyond common side effects warrants immediate discussion with your provider. Never hesitate to advocate for yourself if something doesn't feel right with your medication.

4. Prepare for Appetite Changes and Side Effects

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Proactive preparation can significantly smooth your first weeks on GLP-1 medication. "When you first start a GLP-1 agonist, you might lose a lot of your appetite," Dr. Joseph warns. He recommends having "protein shakes or meal replacement shakes that you can hopefully slowly sip on throughout the day" to maintain essential nutrition when food holds little appeal.

Electrolytes Are Absolutely Essential

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Even more critically, Dr. Joseph strongly emphasizes electrolyte preparedness: "Please, please, please have electrolytes on hand." He shares that he recently had "two patients within three days of each other that were hospitalized" after increasing to maximum doses and experiencing severe dehydration. This dehydration affected their kidney function and heart rhythm.

RELATED:20 Things to Avoid While on Ozempic

Stay on Top of Your Lab Work

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Regular lab work and maintaining hydration are essential safeguards, particularly when increasing doses. If you have pre-existing kidney issues, Dr. Joseph advises consulting your provider before starting electrolyte supplements.

5. Focus on Your Personal Journey

Beautiful woman checking her body shape in a mirror.15 Daily Habits to Lose 5-10 Pounds in 30 DaysShutterstock

The final crucial step involves protecting your mental approach to treatment. "Don't listen to others, don't compare yourself to others," Dr. Joseph advises. When beginning his own GLP-1 journey, he only told his wife, noting, "if you do not have a support system like that... you don't need to tell anybody about this."

Beware of Comparing Yourself to Online Success Stories

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Dr. Joseph cautions against comparing your results to dramatic online success stories, which are often outliers. "You will get to your goal," he assures, explaining that "some people might need a higher dose" while others "might not do well on semaglutide and they need tirzepatide instead."

RELATED:5 Foods That Maximize Weight Loss on GLP-1 Medicines, According to Coach

Remember the Invisible Benefits

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Dr. Joseph reminds patients that even without dramatic scale changes, "you are metabolically optimizing your body... improving your insulin resistance, improving your kidney function, improving your cardiac health."

Dr. Joseph concludes with confident encouragement: "Starting on a GLP-1 is the greatest thing you could do for your life and for your health. I truly believe that you will thank yourself... because your health will be in a much better place than it was six months or a year ago." And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss20 Incredible Ozempic Success Stories of All Time

Fitness & Workouts

5-Minute Walking Workouts for Women Over 40 to Burn Fat at Home

Emily Daugherty Wellness
Copyright Emily Daugherty Wellness/YouTube
Christopher Roback
By Christopher RobackMar 26, 2025
Christopher Roback
Professional Health, Science Editor and Writer
Christopher Roback is an experienced news journalist specializing in political, science, and crime news.
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✓Evidence-Based

This content references scientific studies and academic research, and is fact-checked to ensure accuracy.

Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strives to be objective, unbiased, and honest.

We are committed to bringing you researched, expert-driven content to help you make more informed decisions around food, health, and wellness. We know how important making choices about your overall health is, and we strive to provide you with the best information possible.

We all struggle to find time for exercise in our busy lives. What if you could improve your fitness with just five minutes a day? Emily Daugherty, a registered nurse specializing in women's health and certified yoga teacher, has created the perfect solution for those days when time is limited but you still want to move your body. "Sometimes five minutes is perfect for what you need at this point in your day," Emily explains. Try this simple workout and discover how just a few minutes of movement can make a big difference in how you feel.

RELATED: This Is Exactly How to Lose Body Fat This Year

Benefits of a Quick Indoor Walk

Taking a short walk, especially after meals, offers numerous health advantages. "I love to do a five-minute walk after a meal to help with digestion and regulate blood sugar," Emily notes. This simple practice delivers immediate benefits while fitting easily into your daily routine. No fancy equipment or large space is needed—just comfortable shoes and enough room to move safely. The fat-burning potential comes from keeping your body in motion consistently, even if only for a brief period.

Basic Walk in Place

Start with a gentle walk in place. "Walk it out right here. Make it happen. Maybe get the feet up a little higher," Emily suggests. Keep your spine long, shoulders relaxed, and find your balance and breath. This is your home base movement—if you ever get confused during the workout, return to this simple walking motion.

Side Steps

The second movement uses the space you have available. "Step out and back side to side," Emily instructs. This lateral movement engages different muscle groups while maintaining the cardiovascular benefits of the basic walk. Remember to keep breathing and maintain good posture throughout.

RELATED:12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster

Knee Lifts

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For the third movement, maintain a long spine and perform knee lifts. "Find a knee lift, lift up and up with a little tummy rotation," Emily demonstrates, suggesting that you can tap the opposite hand to the opposite knee for an added challenge. This movement engages your core while continuing the cardio benefits.

Front Kicks

The final basic movement involves front kicks. "Just kick it out. Today, reach both arms out," Emily encourages. This movement increases your heart rate while also working your leg muscles and improving coordination when combined with arm movements. She also shared bonus movements.

Kickbacks with Wide Stance

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Taking your feet wide, Emily introduces kickbacks. "Get the legs going with the feet wide," she advises. For those who need additional balance support, she suggests using a chair. "You might have a chair in front of you if you need that added balance," Emily notes, making sure the workout remains accessible to everyone.

RELATED:8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat

Double Leg Lifts

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As a final challenge, try double leg lifts with a wide stance. "Let's do doubles this time. When you're ready, check in. We're going to go up and up," Emily explains. She offers modifications, suggesting you can keep your hands down if needed or add arm movements for an extra challenge. "Great move for your balance," she points out, highlighting the multiple benefits of this simple exercise.

Cool Down

Never skip the cool down phase! Emily emphasizes the importance of gradually reducing your heart rate: "You know we never skip this cool down." Take your feet wide, rock your hips side to side, and catch your breath. Complete several stretches, including "angel breaths" (sweeping your arms high on inhale and releasing on exhale), side stretches, and gentle shoulder stretches.

RELATED:20 Foods You Didn’t Know Were Ultra-Processed

Conclusion

In just five minutes, you've completed a full-body, low-impact walking workout that can boost your energy, improve circulation, and help with weight management. "Thank you so much for practicing with me today," Emily says warmly. For those looking for more challenges, she offers a 30-Day 5K program where you can train to walk 3.1 miles in the comfort of your own living space.

Remember, consistency matters more than duration when it comes to exercise. As Emily would say, "If you're moving your body, you are doing this workout just right." Why not make this five-minute routine part of your daily habit and see how these small steps lead to big changes in how you feel?

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