"Stop slouching" might have been some of the best advice your mother ever gave you. Experts have found that if you stand up strait when you walk, you'll burn more calories, flatten your belly and look thinner.

Become an ab-conscious walker. You can teach yourself to do this naturally with one simple trick: Before going out for a fitness walk, place a belt around the thinnest part of your waist (not through any belt loops). Make it snug, but not too tight. As you move, pull your abs up and your shoulders back so that the belt begins to feel almost loose. Wear the belt every time you go walking and in about three weeks (the time it generally takes for something to become a habit) you'll automatically start tightening your abs. Soon you'll find yourself walking taller and looking leaner throughtout your entire day.

Family Circle Sept 2009