On zero-ing in on that upper stomach slice…
“When it comes to toning the tummy, I like to approach the stomach as a whole! I start by focusing on the lower abs deep inside the core because they are the most difficult to connect with and engage. From there I move a little higher up, pulling in as tight as I can right in the center of the belly at the navel, and working through the upper abs by the ribs. And you can't forget the obliques! Those muscles on the side of the stomach give the most beautiful shape and tone to any tummy.”
On those pesky back and glute muscles…
“The picture wouldn't be complete without a tightly toned butt and elegant and strong back. The good news is that if you are pulling the muscles in tight in your abs while you work the butt and legs, your abs will get a workout too. It's one of the secrets of ballet and a key principle in my Ballet Beautiful workouts. Everything—even the tiniest leg movement—comes from your center of balance (your core). And for anyone suffering from back pain, the stronger the stomach muscles get, the more they support the back and help alleviate those troubles.”
On getting to the nitty-gritty (a.k.a. the exercises that will
get you wearing Kardashian/Jenner worthy crop tops in no time)…
“I love targeted mat work for toning, along with our BB Cardio Series to really get everything connected. The idea is that you want to start out on the mat focusing only on the abs with a series of lower ab exercises, twists and really challenging roll throughs before moving on to other parts of the body. If you only have 15 minutes do half on the mat and half standing! And don't forget to lift up through your torso and pull in and engage the tummy as much as you can throughout your day. I try to set daily tasks as a good time to remember to connect with my core—my commute to work, when I'm checking my e-mail, etc.—so you know you are always engaging and gaining strength and tone.
1. Ballet Beautiful Abs: Pull in tight through the stomach and bend the knees slightly. Lower back as you open the arms to second position. Close the arms as you lift up, pulling in tight through the abs. 2 sets of 8.
2. Ballet Beautiful Abs with a Twist: One of my favorites for tightening the abs and sculpting a sleek, feminine waist! This one will really address the upper ab and obliques for your crop top. Pull in with the stomach, lean back and twist to one side as you extend your leg and lift the opposite arm. Pulse back for two sets of 8, change sides.
On the extra steps to get the flattest of flat tummies
(we’re talking VS Angel sh*t here)…
“If you really want to transform your stomach you have to look at the entire picture. How you workout, eat and carry yourself! Each small piece plays a big role in putting the puzzle together. Also, avoid stress to keep your cortisol levels in check! Salt is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to bloating. I'm super sensitive to it so work hard to avoid processed foods and keep my diet as clean and salt free as I can. Also, stay hydrated! Flush, flush, flush with lots of water and green tea with lemon. And enjoy natural anti inflammatories like salmon, berries, avocado and nuts.”
