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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.

10 Ways Denise Austin Stays Fit at 67

Here is everything you need to know about her lifestyle habits.

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Denise Austin defies the laws of aging. At 67, she still manages to look half her age. The fitness pro recently shared a swimsuit photo with her followers, wearing a crop top and swimsuit bottoms that highlighted her fat abs. How does she approach diet, fitness, and self-care to make 67 look like 37? Here are 10 ways Denise Austin stays fit and sexy at 67.


Positive Attitude

“It’s really all about your positive attitude,” she tells First for Women. “And if you can keep your attitude positive when things get you down, you’ll bounce back quicker from anything.”

Resistance Training to Hack Your Metabolism

Woman exercising lateral leg lifts with resistance bandShutterstock

“As we all age, you really need to do some light strength training or any type of resistance training, even more so, to save our bones, to help our muscles work, work miracles on your metabolism,” Denise reveals about her ultimate fitness hack. “Metabolism is so important because it slows down naturally as you age, so one of the best ways to combat that and fight the drooping, and the aging is muscles. We have 640 muscles and these muscles will help your posture and your muscle tone — they will help keep everything fit and firm. And it’s healthy to have strong muscles for your bones as well as for your joints!”

Stretching

Rear view of woman stretching her arm and shoulderShutterstock

Denise also emphasizes the importance of stretching. “Flexibility after 50 is so important. I just don’t think we stretch enough! I would love more women to stretch to feel better. The one area that is important to stretch is your hips. Women’s hips can hold stress and tension and that could lead to tugging on your low spine. And if your hips and your hamstring stay flexible, it keeps your back healthy. So it all works hand in hand and head to toe,” she says.

Walking

Woman walking in the park with bottle water in summer health care concept.Shutterstock

Austin makes sure to get her steps in. “Walking is good,” she says. Going for a daily walk can be a game changer in terms of exercise, especially at a brisk speed. One study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that walking at a brisk pace for about 30 minutes a day led to a reduced risk of heart disease, cancer, dementia and death, compared with walking a similar number of steps but at a slower pace.

Breathing Exercises

Profile portrait of young attractive yogi woman breathing fresh air, her eyes closed, meditation pose, relaxation exercise, working out wearing black sportswear top, close up image, window backgroundShutterstock

Denise also recommends “just standing up with the best posture ever and doing three deep breaths while doing back arm circles (like you’re swimming backwards),” she tells the publication. She maintains the “deep breathing” exercise “will open up your chest naturally.”

Body Positivity

The “definition of body positivity,” according to Denise? “You are able to do what you want for your own reasons. If you feel better losing weight, that’s okay—do what makes you feel like your best self. That’s the point. If someone does want to change their body, the coolest part about life and fitness is that you can,” she tells Women’s Health.

Lifestyle Over Diet

fitness, sport, training, aerobics and people concept - close up of people working out with steppers in gym from backShutterstock

As for diet, Austin encourages looking at it as a lifestyle. “Way too often, people start a diet, get excited about it for a few days, and then return to their normal habits when it gets in the way of their lifestyle. The major problem here is that a diet shouldn’t be a fad or an inconvenience — it should fit seamlessly into your lifestyle, so it is easy to adopt and adapt to! Because if a diet is going to work for you, it’s got to be something you can keep up with day in and day out,” she writes in a blog post.

Tracking Calories

CALORIE counting counter application Medical eating healthy Diet conceptShutterstock

Also, she recommends knowing how many calories you are taking in. “By sticking to a plan that already does the work for you, you will be less likely to stray off course,” she says, recommending her own plan. “If losing weight is truly a goal for you, it takes a combination of regular exercise and eating a certain number of calories. My Plan makes this simple - you choose your calorie level (you can change it at any time!), and you get all your daily meals (plus snacks) recipes delivered right to you! My recipes are equal parts tasty and simple - and always filling, because no one wants to be hungry when dieting! You can start a free trial and check out my eating plan, recipes and workouts today.”

Hydration

Drinking water and staying hydrated. Person running in the park trying shoe next to bottle of water.Shutterstock

She also stresses the importance of hydration. “Quench your thirst—even when you don’t feel like it. When you’re drinking enough water, you won’t confuse thirst with hunger and accidentally overeat. Plus, staying hydrated is great for so many other health and wellness reasons, as dehydration can have detrimental effects on your health,” she writes.

Making Diet and Exercise a “Team Effort”

Making diet and exercise “a team effort,” is also key. “I can’t emphasize it enough: Being a part of a community can be so huge for your goals. Find an exercise/diet buddy at work, in your neighborhood, in your group of friends, or even online!” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

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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.

Denise Austin defies the laws of aging. At 67, she still manages to look half her age. The fitness pro recently shared a swimsuit photo with her followers, wearing a crop top and swimsuit bottoms that highlighted her fat abs. How does she approach diet, fitness, and self-care to make 67 look like 37? Here are 10 ways Denise Austin stays fit and sexy at 67.


Positive Attitude

“It’s really all about your positive attitude,” she tells First for Women. “And if you can keep your attitude positive when things get you down, you’ll bounce back quicker from anything.”

Resistance Training to Hack Your Metabolism

Woman exercising lateral leg lifts with resistance bandShutterstock

“As we all age, you really need to do some light strength training or any type of resistance training, even more so, to save our bones, to help our muscles work, work miracles on your metabolism,” Denise reveals about her ultimate fitness hack. “Metabolism is so important because it slows down naturally as you age, so one of the best ways to combat that and fight the drooping, and the aging is muscles. We have 640 muscles and these muscles will help your posture and your muscle tone — they will help keep everything fit and firm. And it’s healthy to have strong muscles for your bones as well as for your joints!”

Stretching

Rear view of woman stretching her arm and shoulderShutterstock

Denise also emphasizes the importance of stretching. “Flexibility after 50 is so important. I just don’t think we stretch enough! I would love more women to stretch to feel better. The one area that is important to stretch is your hips. Women’s hips can hold stress and tension and that could lead to tugging on your low spine. And if your hips and your hamstring stay flexible, it keeps your back healthy. So it all works hand in hand and head to toe,” she says.

Walking

Woman walking in the park with bottle water in summer health care concept.Shutterstock

Austin makes sure to get her steps in. “Walking is good,” she says. Going for a daily walk can be a game changer in terms of exercise, especially at a brisk speed. One study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that walking at a brisk pace for about 30 minutes a day led to a reduced risk of heart disease, cancer, dementia and death, compared with walking a similar number of steps but at a slower pace.

Breathing Exercises

Profile portrait of young attractive yogi woman breathing fresh air, her eyes closed, meditation pose, relaxation exercise, working out wearing black sportswear top, close up image, window backgroundShutterstock

Denise also recommends “just standing up with the best posture ever and doing three deep breaths while doing back arm circles (like you’re swimming backwards),” she tells the publication. She maintains the “deep breathing” exercise “will open up your chest naturally.”

Body Positivity

The “definition of body positivity,” according to Denise? “You are able to do what you want for your own reasons. If you feel better losing weight, that’s okay—do what makes you feel like your best self. That’s the point. If someone does want to change their body, the coolest part about life and fitness is that you can,” she tells Women’s Health.

Lifestyle Over Diet

fitness, sport, training, aerobics and people concept - close up of people working out with steppers in gym from backShutterstock

As for diet, Austin encourages looking at it as a lifestyle. “Way too often, people start a diet, get excited about it for a few days, and then return to their normal habits when it gets in the way of their lifestyle. The major problem here is that a diet shouldn’t be a fad or an inconvenience — it should fit seamlessly into your lifestyle, so it is easy to adopt and adapt to! Because if a diet is going to work for you, it’s got to be something you can keep up with day in and day out,” she writes in a blog post.

Tracking Calories

CALORIE counting counter application Medical eating healthy Diet conceptShutterstock

Also, she recommends knowing how many calories you are taking in. “By sticking to a plan that already does the work for you, you will be less likely to stray off course,” she says, recommending her own plan. “If losing weight is truly a goal for you, it takes a combination of regular exercise and eating a certain number of calories. My Plan makes this simple - you choose your calorie level (you can change it at any time!), and you get all your daily meals (plus snacks) recipes delivered right to you! My recipes are equal parts tasty and simple - and always filling, because no one wants to be hungry when dieting! You can start a free trial and check out my eating plan, recipes and workouts today.”

Hydration

Drinking water and staying hydrated. Person running in the park trying shoe next to bottle of water.Shutterstock

She also stresses the importance of hydration. “Quench your thirst—even when you don’t feel like it. When you’re drinking enough water, you won’t confuse thirst with hunger and accidentally overeat. Plus, staying hydrated is great for so many other health and wellness reasons, as dehydration can have detrimental effects on your health,” she writes.

Making Diet and Exercise a “Team Effort”

Making diet and exercise “a team effort,” is also key. “I can’t emphasize it enough: Being a part of a community can be so huge for your goals. Find an exercise/diet buddy at work, in your neighborhood, in your group of friends, or even online!” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

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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.

Lisa Rinna is steaming up the internet with her latest sizzling hot throwback snap. The 61-year-old Real Housewives of Beverly Hills alum shared a provocative photo on her social media this week, eliciting a major response from her followers. “@gregswalesart you are a master I forget just how great I looked,” she captioned the photo of her flawless figure. “Flawless appeal,” commented one. “Age-defying beauty,” added another. How does the star look better than most people half her age? Here are ten things the Body Network knows about Lisa Rinna’s approach to diet and exercise.


She’s Lived in “Moderation”

“I’ve been really fortunate to get to 60 and be healthy, knock on wood,” Rinna told Cosmo in January 2024. “I keep a very moderate lifestyle. I’ve worked out since I was 16 years old. I live in moderation, even though it seems like I live very loudly and largely. I get my rest. I eat mostly healthy. I’m moderate. I don’t go crazy with anything. So there’s no silver bullet. There’s nothing that I’m super challenged with.”

She Has Good Genes

Lisa admits that genetics have played a role in her longevity. “I’ve been very lucky with my health. My body maintains itself pretty well at this age,” she added to Cosmo. “People are like, ‘How the heck do you do that?’ Genetics. I have a good base of genetics and I got lucky with that. So it’s not that hard for me. And I still look good, so that’s fun, easy, nice. I enjoy it. I present it the way I want to. And when I can’t do that anymore, I won’t.”

She’s “Aging Disgracefully”

Lisa has stopped caring about other people’s opinions. “I just don’t care about what people think about me, and that has been a tremendous gift that I have learned,” she said. “I’ve gotten to that place where at 60, I am so much more confident than I was at 30,” she continued. “I love this age because I’m freer and more confident and more passionate than I’ve ever been ... there’s this whole thing about aging gracefully, and I’m like, ‘I’m going to age disgracefully.’”

RELATED:She Lost 49 Pounds at 43 Without Dieting, Here Are 10 Foods She Buys to Keep It Off

She Is a Believer in Hormone Replacement Therapy

Lisa is a fan of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to treat menopause symptoms. “Everything you can go through, I was going through it. I couldn’t sleep, the hot flashes, everything, and I was anxious and angry and just a mess,” she said about her experience with menopause. “If I’m going to have a better life by taking [hormones], I’m going to do it. If you took my hormones away, I would kill you, probably. I really think they’re helpful in so many ways.”

She Accepts that Aging Is Inevitable

Lisa has accepted that she is getting older. “I think it is about passion. You can’t fight aging. Aging is going to happen. How do I do it so that I feel good and I’m happy? That’s what I’m looking for, and I’m still passionate, and I’m still curious about life,” she told Cosmo. “I don’t necessarily need to look like I’m 20 years old, though that’s fun if you can get it. But you know what I’m saying? It’s about how do you morph yourself into this era and still feel good, be curious, be passionate, and be happy?”

Jazzercise

Lisa has been dancing her way to a hot body since she was a teen. “I’ve had the same fitness routine since I was 16,” she told Us Weekly. “It started with Jazzercise, and I’ve been consistent about working out ever since.”

RELATED:10 Micro Habits Made Her Lose 20 Pounds While Being a “Busy Worker Mom"

Yoga

She also gets her zen on. “Yoga has been my life savior for 26 years I’ve been practicing now,” she added to Us. “It’s my consistent … you know, I do many workouts and I go through lots of different things, but I think most consistently practicing yoga has been the most helpful in keeping myself grounded and somewhat space … somewhat…”

She Follows a “Dirty Vegan” Diet

While Lisa eats some animal products, she tries to fill her plate with plant-based foods and produce. “I tend to call myself a dirty vegan," she told People. “I’m mostly plant-based—but if I do need to eat some meat, I’ll have it.”

Exercise Makes Her Feel Better

Lisa tries to focus on how exercise makes her feel, instead of just her looks. “I’m always doing something. I just do because I feel better,” Lisa told OWN. “If I feel better, I’m nicer. If I’m nicer, my life goes better.”

RELATED:3 Core Exercises You Need to Do to Tighten Your Abs, According to a Fitness Trainer

She Mixes Up Workouts

"My one piece of advice though is finding more than one form of exercise that you love to do and then mixing it up," Lisa explained on her website. "One day do the Pilates, and then the next day you play tennis. Maybe you can even incorporate a Friday night salsa dancing class with your girlfriends!" And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Fitness and health expert Denise Austin (@deniseaustin) is revealing the one exercise you need to do to “tone and tighten your thighs.” In a new exercise video shared on social media, the fitness guru demonstrates an easy but effective lower-body exercise. “Get up with me right now and try this move, it only takes a minute but works so many muscles at one time it’s worth it!!” she captioned the clip. What is the exercise, and what other health habits help keep Austin, 67, in shape? Here is everything you need to know.


Wall Sits

Denise demonstrates a wall sit in the video. “Simply rest your back against the wall and walk your feet out so your legs are as close to a 90° angle as possible. The lower you are the hard it will be… you will feel the burn in your quads, glutes, calves and core!! Hold for as long as you can and repeat 3-4 times!” she instructs.

Short Bursts of Exercise

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You don’t need to invest large chunks of time in exercise. “If you can do 10 minutes of working out at a time and do that three times a day, you will have worked out 30 minutes in one day,' noted the star in her charming easy-to-relate-to manner,” Denise told Daily Mail.

Related: 5 Ways You Might Be Sabotaging Your Weight Loss Without Even Knowing It

Movement All Day

Denise_Austin_deniseaustin7deniseaustin/Instagram

Denise emphasizes the importance of constant movement. “It is all about blood circulation and moving. I even stand up and walk in place when I watch TV just to keep it flowing,” she told Daily Mail. “The consistency pays off.”

Walking

Denise_Austin_deniseaustin6deniseaustin/Instagram

Walking “is a healthy way to feel better” and helps improve mood and sleep, Denise told the Daily Mail adding that “exercise is the best pre-meditative medicine,” and she works out for mental health benefits “I like to exercise to feel good. I feel energetic after a walk, the endorphins get going and flow, it helps with stress and anxiety and pent-up feelings.”

Related: How I Lost 40 Pounds in One Month

Portion Size

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It’s not always what you eat, but how much you eat, says Denise. “I eat smaller portions,” she told Daily Mail. “For dinner I may have salmon and veggies. A snack is flax seed with yogurt. I love avocados and eggs for breakfast.” She also prepares her own meals. “I cook really healthy for my family. There are a lot of salads, chicken tacos, vegetable lasagnas, casseroles with less cheese.”

Related: Fitness Guru Shows Off Before-and-After Body to Prove Instagram Isn’t Realty

80/20 Rule

Denise_Austin_deniseaustin3deniseaustin/Instagram

Denise is all about moderation. “I eat well 80 percent of the time and the other 20 percent I am bad,” she confessed to Daily Mail.

💪🔥Body Booster: Working out just 10 minutes a day can make a big difference if you focus on doing effective moves. If you aren’t sure what to do, hire a personal trainer to put together a short but intense workout for you. And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss 12-3-30 Walking Method: 20 Proven Tips to Lose Weight Faster.

Ilene Block silverandstrong
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Don’t let age be the excuse that keeps you from losing weight. Ilene Block is the founder of Silver and Strong, a coaching company that specializes in helping women over 50 get into the best shape of their lives. She lost 40 pounds at 61 (and 55 pounds altogether) by making a few simple changes to her routine. In a new post, she reveals exactly what she does to look and feel so great at her age: “5 reasons I look fitter than most people at 65,” she writes.

“It’s not good genes or luck or some ‘secret formula’ - it’s daily habits that keep me looking fit, strong, healthy and youthful,” she writes in the post. “The best news? You can adopt these habits and live your best life at any age!” She then reveals precisely what she does.

She Eats Lots of Protein

The first thing she does is eat a protein-rich diet every day. “I spent decades yo-yo dieting and eating as little as possible to be skinny. I learned at 61 the power of macro based nutrition and now eat to fuel my body to be fit, strong and healthy,” she says.

RELATED:20 Superfoods for People Over 50

She Hydrates

Next, she drinks 100 ounces of water daily. “Drinking plenty of water daily is essential for hydration, digestion, joint lubrication, and muscle function, especially for women over 50 who are active,” she says.

She Walks 8,000 Steps Per Day

She also gets her steps in — 8,000 to be exact. “Walking supports heart health, improves mobility, and helps maintain a healthy metabolism. It strengthens bones, and enhances mood, making it an effective and accessible way to stay active and independent,” she writes

She Lifts Heavy Weights

She also lifts heavy weights five days a week. “Lifting weights builds and maintains muscle mass, improves bone density, and boosts metabolism, which is key for longevity and independence,” she says.

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

She Keeps Her Mind Engaged and Challenged

Another habit: Keeping her mind engaged and challenged. “Keeping your mind active improves cognitive function, reduces the risk of dementia, enhances memory, and supports overall mental well-being for a sharper, more fulfilling life,” she says.

Here’s How to Approach Changes

“You can make these changes at any age,” she continues. “Pick one place to start and remember these mantras.” The first is “consistency, not perfection,” followed by “discipline, not motivation,” and finally, “comparison is the thief of joy.” And if you enjoyed this article, don't miss I Hit 60 and These 15 Anti-Aging Foods Keep Me Fit and Feeling 20 Years Younger.

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Liz Hilliard
FACT CHECKED BY Christopher Roback
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Liz Hilliard, 70, is living, breathing proof that age is just a number. The pilates instructor, who trains out of her studio Hilliard Studio Method, discovered the workout when she was 48, and completely transformed her approach to health. Over the years she has managed to learn a few things about longevity, revealing her secrets in an interview with Body Network.


Liz Used to Rely on Traditional Workouts

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

Liz, who lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, explains that she was athletic throughout her childhood and enjoyed playing basketball and other team sports. “Traditional workouts always felt boring and offered minimal results for the time and energy put into them, " she says. Until I was in my late 40s, I relied on tennis and walking as my main sources of exercise.

RELATED: I'm a Personal Trainer and These 5 Moves Banished My Clients' Bat Wings in Weeks

She Discovered Pilates at Age 48

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

“At age 48, I attended my first Pilates class 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."

Fusing Strength Training with Pilates Was a Game-Changer

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

"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," Liz says.

"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 Shaved Inches Off Her Waistline

Slim young woman measuring her thin waist with a tape measure, close upShutterstock

Hillard, who has since authored the book "Be Powerful: Find Your Strength at Any Age" and co-hosts the Be Powerful Podcast, has remained 135 pounds throughout most of her life. “Muscle weighs more than fat, so I was replacing adipose tissue with muscle. My body was sculpting and changing at a rapid rate, especially given that I was in the throes of menopause. I lost inches around my waist, my arms became strong and sculpted, my abs flattened, and my glutes lifted. My entire body changed over the course of a year or less,” she says.

She Works Out 4 to 5 Times a Week

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

What are the most important things she learned about getting in shape? “Find a workout that you enjoy, or you won’t stick with it. Our lives are busy, so finding a workout that efficiently provides resistance combined with stretch and enough cardio is essential. I do my workout at Hilliard Studio Method 4 to 5 times a week because we change the workout daily, moving through compound exercising and utilizing different resistance tools like balls, gliders, and bands to continuously cause muscle confusion and avoid the dreadful plateau, both mentally and physically. We keep the work fun and evolving, low impact yet high intensity. The amazing side effect of getting in physical shape is that one’s mental and emotional outlook becomes far more positive. Strength training like I do at HSM is the fountain of youth,” she continues.

RELATED: This Woman Gave Up Processed Sugar and Got Into the Best Shape of Her Life at 54 By Doing These 4 Things

Get Your Steps In

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

Her top workout suggestions? “Walk every day and everywhere. Get outside as often as possible to walk in nature. Bonus points if you walk with a friend. It’s built-in mental and physical therapy, which will not only help keep you fit but also lift your mood and keep your mind creative,” she says.

Strength Train Four Times a Week

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

Also, strength training 4 times per week. “Strength training is an absolute requirement for healthy aging and simply means load-bearing exercises that require your muscles to engage. This can include anything from hand weights, resistance bands, weighted balls or any weighted object that taxes and builds skeletal muscles. Skeletal muscle strength allows the body to burn calories and maintain a healthy weight while setting the body up for success when inevitable accidents happen, so you are far less likely to avoid falling and breaking bones,” she says.

It’s Never Too Late to Get in Shape

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

What is her message for women out there who are struggling to get in shape? “It’s never too late, and you’re never too old or out of shape to start exercising. By simply getting out of your chair and going for a 20-minute walk, you’ll have the immediate feedback of feeling better physically, mentally, and emotionally,” she says.

Make Exercise Social

Liz HilliardLiz Hilliard

She also recommends connecting with friends to walk, workout, “and just talk every day,” she says. “Walking and talking with a friend or acquaintance is the perfect combo for both physical and mental health! Add resistance training to your workout, which can be as simple as a plank for as long as you can hold it until you work for up to a minute. Then go for 2 minutes or more. This is resistance training and incredible for your core and overall fitness! Then add a pushup on your knees, which is basically a moving plank that strengthens your arms, back, and core, not to mention flattens your abs. Do as many as you can, and try to work up to 20 or more. Mostly, just keep moving every single day. Our bodies are designed to move. The fastest way to early aging is to stop moving. The move it or lose it cliché is true.”

RELATED: I Help Women Over 35 Lose Weight: 9 Eating Errors You Must Stop Today

Try the Hilliard Studio Method at Home

Athletic woman in stylish sportswear doing lunges exercises at home in bedroom.Shutterstock

She says she “takes working out to the next level to produce results that are nothing short of a total mind-body transformation for women and men of all ages and stages,” she says. “Hilliard Studio Method group classes are designed to be taken on a regular basis. Each class is different from the day before. Our energetic and encouraging trainers utilize a variety of powerful movements and workout tools in a high intensity, low impact method driven by empowering, beat-driven music; think personal training in a group setting.” Her classes can also be done virtually via an online streaming platform and live Zoom classes. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 20 Superfoods for People Over 50.

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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.

Are you trying to lose weight? Many health experts maintain that starting the day with a fat-burning beverage is the key to revving your metabolism. However, not all weight loss drinks and products claiming to be an instant fix are actually effective. In fact, many of the best morning weight-loss drinks are much more natural and less processed than you would think. Here are 6 morning drinks that can help you burn belly fat.

Water

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The most important drink for fat loss is water. Not only will staying hydrated keep your body functioning and metabolism working properly, but it can also ward off hunger. One eight-week study of 50 girls with excess weight found that those who drank about two cups of water half an hour before breakfast, lunch, and dinner without any additional dietary changes, successfully lost weight and decreased BMI. Another study in Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found a link between drinking about two cups of 71°F water and a 30% average increase in the metabolic rates of 14 healthy adults.

RELATED:What Happens When You Quit Soda, According to a Nutritionist

Coffee

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There are lots of studies that found a link between drinking coffee and weight loss. One found that women who drink higher amounts of coffee had a lower body fat percentage compared to those who drink less coffee. Another found that those who consume caffeine 30 minutes to 4 hours before mealtime eat less. It’s important to note that most research involves black coffee – not coffee drowned in cream and sugar or other high-calorie sweetened coffee drinks.

Protein Shake

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Starting your day with a protein shake is a great way to burn belly fat. Clinical trials have found that consuming more protein than the recommended dietary allowance not only reduces body weight (BW) but also enhances body composition by decreasing fat mass while preserving fat-free mass (FFM) in both low-calorie and standard-calorie diets. Most experts recommend at least 30 grams of protein per meal.

Green Tea

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Numerous studies have found that there are many benefits to drinking green tea, including boosting your immune system, fighting inflammation, and even warding off cancer and heart disease. The NCCIH adds that it can help stimulate weight loss,” in addition to having “possible protective effects” against heart disease and cancer. How does it do this? Per an animal study, the catechins (polyphenols) in green tea may help trigger thermogenesis and fat oxidation, which helps decrease appetite and speed calorie burning.

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ACV

Los Angeles, CA/USA 07/20/2019 Shoppers hand holding a bottle of Bragg brand organic raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar in a supermarket aisle​Apple Cider Vinegar and Warm WaterShutterstock

Lots of people swear by taking a shot of ACV in the morning, and one of the reasons is fat loss. Limited research suggests that ACV may help reduce high cholesterol and regulate blood glucose levels.

Chia Seed Water

Woman adding chia seeds into glass of water on wooden table

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Chia seed water regularly goes viral, with users claiming that the fiber-packed drink helps them lose weight. Just combine one tablespoon of chia seeds with a glass of water (optional: add lime) and drink 30 minutes before meals,” TikTok user @happyandhealthyolivia says in a viral video. Just one ounce (about two tablespoons) of the tiny black seeds boasts 4.7g protein, 10 g fiber (an excellent source), and 9 g fat (almost exclusively the good kind), per the U.S. Department of Agriculture. And if you enjoyed this article, don't missthese 8 High-Protein Foods with Nearly Zero Calories That Melt Fat.

Joy Villa joyvillafitness
Copyright joyvillafitness/Instagram
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.

As a holistic nutritionist and founder of Joy Villa Fitness, I see it all the time—women (and men) trying their best to eat healthy, only to be tricked by sneaky marketing labels and processed products pretending to be good for you. Just because it says “natural,” “low-fat,” or “plant-based” doesn’t mean it’s nourishing your body. Here are 7 popular “health” foods I never eat—and what I recommend instead:

1. Flavored Yogurt

Why I skip it: Packed with added sugars, artificial flavors, and preservatives. Some have as much sugar as a donut!

What I eat instead: Plain, full-fat Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt with a handful of berries and cinnamon.

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2. Granola Bars

Why I skip it: Most are glorified candy bars, full of sugar, seed oils, and additives.

What I eat instead: Homemade energy bites with nuts, seeds, protein powder, and a touch of honey—or just a handful of almonds and a boiled egg for real fuel.

3. Store-Bought Veggie Chips

Why I skip it: Fried in inflammatory oils and stripped of nutrients.

What I eat instead: Baked kale chips with sea salt and avocado oil—or crunchy cucumber and bell pepper slices with hummus.

4. Diet Soda or “Zero-Calorie” Drinks

Why I skip it: Artificial sweeteners disrupt your gut, trigger cravings, and are linked to long-term health risks.

What I drink instead: Sparkling mineral water with lemon or stevia-sweetened herbal iced teas.

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5. Processed Plant-Based Meats

Why I skip it: Highly processed, loaded with GMO soy, chemicals, and fake flavors.

What I eat instead: Grilled tempeh, wild-caught fish, or grass-fed beef—REAL food from nature.

6. Low-Fat or Fat-Free Anything

Why I skip it: Stripping out fat often means adding sugar or chemicals to make it taste good. Your body needs healthy fats for hormones, brain health, and metabolism.

What I eat instead: Full-fat, real foods like avocado, olive oil, grass-fed butter, and fatty fish.

7. Pre-Made Smoothies or Juices from Chains

Why I skip it: Most are sugar bombs in disguise—some with over 50 grams of sugar in one drink.

What I drink instead: Homemade smoothies with protein powder, greens, berries, and unsweetened almond milk. You control what goes in your body!

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Final Word from Coach Joy

Just because it’s marketed as healthy doesn’t mean it aligns with your goals or your body. Real health is simple. Stick to whole foods, read labels, and don’t fall for the hype. Your body is a temple—honor it! And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.

Nikki Madoch Nikki Gets Fit
I Lost 70 Pounds and Beat Binge Eating With These 6 Steps
Copyright nikkigets_fit/Instagram
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.

Starting a weight loss journey can feel overwhelming and intimidating. We often focus on the wrong things and set ourselves up for disappointment. Nikki Madoch (@NikkiGetsFit) knows this all too well. As a self-described "nutrition athlete" with ASM CPT and CNC certifications, Nikki has shared her experience losing an impressive 70 pounds on the Weight Watchers program. Her insights might just be the perspective shift you need to make your own journey more successful and sustainable.

The Right Motivation Makes All the Difference

Most people start losing weight to look better, but that's rarely enough to stick with it long-term. "For so long, I just wanted to look better, have a flat stomach, and look like other people. That was all it was," Nikki admits in her post. She found out that feeling better physically became what truly kept her going, not how she looked, which completely changed her approach and results.

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Health Benefits Show Up Quickly

The physical improvements from healthier eating can pop up much faster than you might think. "After just one week, I could not believe how much better I felt," Nikki says. She noticed huge differences in her energy and overall well-being after cutting out fast food and focusing on portion control and foods that actually nourished her body.

Feeling Good Trumps Looking Good

Lasting weight loss comes from caring more about how your body feels than how it looks. "What keeps me going is how good I feel when I take care of myself, eat healthy, nourish myself, drink enough water, get enough sleep, and exercise," Nikki points out. While looking better in clothes feels nice, it's the improved quality of life that really drives her to keep making healthy choices.

Body Image Issues Can Actually Increase

Surprisingly, losing weight doesn't magically fix body image issues and might even create new ones. "I didn't know that I would have more body dysmorphia as I lost weight," Nikki confesses. She caught herself becoming more critical and self-conscious about specific body parts during her journey than she had been at her heaviest weight.

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The Mental Game Gets Tougher

Weight loss demands as much mental strength as physical discipline, especially as you make progress. "It was a whole new mental game that I had to work through," Nikki says about dealing with increased body scrutiny. Learning to shift her focus back to health and strength rather than picking apart her physical imperfections became crucial for her continued success.

Don't Be Afraid to Use All Your Resources

If you're following a structured program, take full advantage of all the flexibility it offers. "I was too scared to use my weeklies," Nikki talks about her initial approach to Weight Watchers points. She later discovered that using all her allotted weekly points actually helped her lose more weight rather than slowing her down.

Strategic Indulgence Works Best

How you use extra calories or points matters more than whether you use them. "What worked best for me was using my weeklies on different snacks that I like—protein bars, nuts, peanut butter spread," Nikki shares. She found that spreading out enjoyable foods throughout the week worked better than saving everything for one big cheat meal.

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Variety Prevents Burnout

Eating the same healthy foods over and over leads to boredom and eventually giving up. "It is very easy to get burned out of things, and it's very important to switch things up," Nikki warns. She learned to keep introducing new recipes, ingredients, and meal ideas to keep her plan interesting and something she could stick with.

Try One New Thing Weekly

Small changes make a big difference in keeping meals from getting boring. "Just trying to add a new recipe each week, just a simple recipe, so that I'm trying something new," Nikki suggests. This approach keeps meals exciting without becoming overwhelming or taking too much time.

The Scale Doesn't Tell the Whole Story

Weight is just one measurement and often a misleading one, especially when building muscle. "Weight and the number on the scale is not everything," Nikki insists. She weighs 190 pounds at 6 feet tall and feels healthier now than when she weighed less but had less muscle.

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Progress Photos Tell a Better Story

Visual proof of body changes can be more motivating than scale numbers. "I'm actually really happy that I did start taking progress pictures from the start," Nikki mentions. These photos helped her see that she looked smaller at a higher weight due to muscle gain, proving that the scale wasn't telling her the full story of her success.

Embrace Multiple Ways to Measure Success

Relying only on weight can lead to frustration, especially during plateaus. "Having different ways to not focus so much on the scale to see your progress is so important," Nikki talks about. She figured out how to judge her progress through how clothes fit, strength gains, and overall wellbeing rather than obsessing over a specific number.

Final Word

Nikki's journey shows that lasting weight loss comes from focusing on health, enjoyment, and sustainable habits rather than just appearance or numbers on a scale. By shifting your perspective on motivation, measurements, and what truly matters, you can create a healthier relationship with food and your body that lasts far beyond reaching your goal weight. And if you enjoyed this article, take advantage of these 15 Quick Ways to Lose Body Fat Percentage in a Week.