Suck it in

So I mulled over writing this as an activity for rookie moms then ruled it out on the basis that it’s not quite as much fun as wiping someone’s tushy.

Growing up, I was a tomboy of the mildest variety. I liked roller skating real fast and hanging out at the swimming pool (as long as the kids weren’t teasing me about strong resemblance to Caspar the Friendly Ghost). When my younger brother claimed the role of family Jock, I headed indoors for television and I cut back my time being sporty and sweaty.

Until. California. Yep, the Golden State turned me into a triathlete. I found that I could enjoy exercising with the proper partner (gossip walking for speed) and the right measurable goals (5 miles, 20 miles, 65 miles!).

Fast forward three years. With two little ones to juggle and a belly made of pudding, I don’t make nearly as much time for fitness and it’s showing. Now that same little brother is a grown-up and he’s getting married this summer.

How can a suburban mom of two look hot and perky again in 4 weeks?

According to Parenting Magazine, to lose the mommy tummy you’re best off doing some gut-sucking-in and standing-up-straight rather than crunches. How awesome is that? I hate sit-ups on a good day and standing up straight doesn’t require a babysitter. Actually inhaling hard and physically squeezing together the abs remind them of what they need to do.

A pricier and easier way to suck it in is to invest in a “slimming undergarment” (AKA girdle) by someone like Spanx or Flexees. They look like high waisted bike shorts but come without all that pressure to go biking.

Related article: News Flash! Men hate baby doll dresses!