Community » Get Advice » Exercise and Fitness » 8 months Post Baby! HELP HELP HELP!

I had my first baby 8 months ago. I resumed working out a mere 2 weeks after baby was born (despite doctors orders). I took it slow and easy at first, then before I knew it I was bouncing back in zumba. I had an all natural childbirth so I felt comfortable exercising and wasn't in pain. The problem is.......I've lost all my baby weight, but I still feel "blah". I don't have a rock hard body like I used to, and my abs are just starting to come back. My main concern is losing my kangaroo pouch and toning up my love handles. I work out 4-6 times per week @ the gym for a min. of 1 hour. Should I just head for plastic surgery?? I was expecting maximum results by now with all I've been doing!

6 Tips to Lose Belly Fat
1. The Fat Burning Zone. Gradually, build the time and intensity of your cardio workout. Be sure to keep your heart rate in the 60% - 70% of max heart rate zone to ensure maximum fat-burning. Start walking, 3 times per week, on an inclined treadmill for 45 minutes. Or, if you prefer, take a long spin on a stationary bike or elliptical machine.
2. Full-Body Strength. Get into resistance training. Complete a full-body strength workout 1 to 3 times per week with free weights or machines. A leaner, more muscular body burns fat faster, including belly fat.
3. Abdominal Work. As you lose excess fat with cardio and strength training, it’s important to work your abdominal muscles, too. Abdominal exercises alone won’t flatten your belly. But, the strengthening exercises will make your stomach look and feel tighter.
4. Crunch Time. Crunch variations are effective abdominal exercises. Target all muscles with bicycle, ball, side, and reverse crunches. To make the most of your work, make sure to stay in proper form. Check out exercise demos ahead of time.
5. Pilates Power. To successfully lose belly fat, you cannot neglect your other muscles. Try a full-body toning workout like Pilates. The exercises utilize all of your core muscles. By creating lean muscle mass, you will increase your body’s calorie burning potential.
6. Diet Attention. No matter how many crunches and Pilates classes you do, you won't see changes in your midsection unless you adjust your diet. Know your calorie intake. Eat less, exercise more, and spend your calories wisely.
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