[kannon]

Originally Posted by Morgan

I have been trying to strengthen my core muscles, the ab machine is a real killer...can anyone give me some advice on other exercises that will help the core, besides sit-ups and leg lifts. I do have a large excercise ball at home that I can use, perhaps building up my back muscles might help in getting my core muscles stronger...I have notice I am standing taller and straighter and I do try holding my stomach in, which for years I have not done.

I have noticed on the weight training on the upper body it is not about how heavy the weight is for me, but the sets and reps....I try to do 3 sets of 20 reps on various machines and feel the muscles burn just a little, but not hurt myself.

Today for breakfast I ate oatmeal and a banana, and lunch consisted of some roasted chicken, 2 hard boiled eggs, grapes and one wholewheat tortilla and some juice. I am finding it very difficult to get myself on a proper diet, especially since I really love carbs. Any advice for a butch who does not cook would be greatly appreciated, gotta love those Lean Cuisines and Healthy Choice meals for dinner, lol....

Stand up straight and hold a dumbbell (weight depends on you and the amount of reps you want to do) in each hand, arms straight against your sides then bend over at your waist and move from side to side. Good exercise for your obliques. Of course you can also bend and straighten up in front to help your lower back.