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Eggnog, cookies, holiday parties. It’s no wonder that when the new year roles around, people put"get in shape" at the top of their list of resolutions.

When we commit to get fit, what body part are we most focused on? According to a survey conducted for Life Fitness, manufacturer of the Lifecycle exercise bike, and other fitness machines for homes and health clubs, more than 38% of the 1000 respondents polled will target their stomachs. A visit to any health club is proof that men and women alike are straining their stomachs on floors, benches and other exercise apparatus in a quest for the "washboard abs". Considering the fact that American consumers spend US$4.8 billion for home exercise equipment last year, adults are clearly committed to deflating the spare tire.

While a flatter stomach provides self-confidence and better fitting clothes, the medical benefits are also substantial. Studies indicate that having a tight abdomen releases more than 50% of the pressure between the vertebrae of the spine, according to a July 1997 article. In fact, many back problems are related to excess weight and weak abdominal muscles.

"With all the hype surrounding the physical and medical value of a toned stomach, consumers are realizing the need to incorporate abdominal exercises into their daily routines," says Kerri O’Brien, a National Strength and Conditioning Association certified health and fitness specialist with a leading American fitness club. "Abdominal muscles are used in virtually every activity in our daily lives, from walking, running, cycling, stepping, to simple stretching or lifting."

"Exercising the abdominal muscles alone, however will not give you a washboard stomach," cautions Greg Bahnfleth, an American College of Sports Medicine certified health and fitness instructor and Life Fitness associate training manager. "We can’t spot reduce a particular body part, but we can do something about getting in shape. A fitness professional can help design a program that incorporates a balanced diet, limited fat intake and a regimen of cardiovascular and strength training exercises which, in turn, can strengthen, tone, and reduce fat all over – including the abdominal region."

To give yourself the best shot at keeping your tummy toning New Year’s resolution, it is important to vary your exercise routines and always keep it fun. Changing the location, and increasing or decreasing goals to attainable levels are ways we can stay with our fitness programs and obtain those admirable abs.