by RealAge
Banish belly flab with a daily walk and this gym-free exercise routine.
Ready to lose inches and gain better health? Pick a 20-minute workout that's right for you with these exercises adapted from YOU: On a Diet, YOU: The Owner's Manual, and YOU: Being Beautiful. They focus on your foundation muscles -- the ones that tighten your belly, shrink your waist, improve your posture, and help you fit into your clothes better.
Start by doing this: Walk 30 minutes a day. No excuses. "It's as important as daily sleep," says Dr. Roizen. (Try this free online video walking program.)
Once you're walking every day, do this: No Equipment Workout.
For this workout, you really need only two things, and both are free: your body and the know-how to use it. Trainer Joel Harper will guide you through it in this 20-minute workout video.
As you get stronger, try these: resistance bands or weights.
Do it every other day: Aim to do 20 minutes, three times a week, ideally every other day.
As with any workout, use caution: At first, you may be able to do each move only a few times; later on, you'll easily manage to do many more. Don't overdo it. Never increase activity by more than 10% a week, take precautions to avoid injury, drink plenty of water, and be aware of your environment. Above all, check with your doctor before you begin any fitness program.
