Topic: dana mcmahan

The Science Of A Six-Pack: Can Diet and Exercise Trump Genetics?

In October, we published “Starving For A Six-Pack“–a 3-part series chronicling writer Dana McMahan‘s experience prepping for and getting fitness model photos taken for her portfolio–and there was no shortage of controversy over the grueling diet she followed to get industry standard’s sculpted, toned look. Many argued that getting a six-pack (or muscle tone, in general) requires nothing more than “eating right” and working out. Others (including Dana) argued that a lot of what determines muscle tone is genetic; despite being strong and healthy, not all of us are destined for easily-sculpted abs. More »

Starving For A Six-Pack: So You Think You Want Flat Abs? Think Again.

It took going to extremes, but I think I’ve finally made peace with my non-perfect stomach. I’ve always wished for flat abs, but never had one. Despite my slender frame (courtesy of my teeny-tiny great grandmother, whose fiery spirit belied her 85-pound person) I’ve long struggled with belly-hate. I’m 5′ 1″ and so short-waisted my hand can span the space between my belly button and bra strap, so I’m just not designed to display a carved up set of abs. Nobody wants to hear the woman in the size zero pants bitch, so I keep it to myself, but my round stomach has been a nemesis that I’ve battled for years to flatten. More »

Starving For A Six-Pack: Enjoying Food Is Greater Than Perfect Abs

I would rather eat than have a six-pack. I love food. I knew I loved it, but I didn’t grasp how important it is to me until I deprived myself for 17 days. More »

Starving For A Six-Pack: My First Week Of Prep For A Professional Fitness Model Photo Shoot

Blisstree contributor Dana McMahan wants to be a fitness model, but to get professional photos taken for her portfolio, she’s on a strict diet and exercise routine that has her, literally, starving for a six pack. This post is about the mental and physical impacts of her first week of trying to slim down; come back next week for week two. More »

Kick Butt: 4 Simple Steps To Start Weightlifting

In honor of “Get Pumped” month (we love that!), how about incorporating weightlifting into your fitness routine? Not only will fight fat and build lean muscle mass (no, you won’t end up looking like a man–promise!), but you will build a strong mind knowing that you are powerful and capable of kicking some major ass. Booya!

To help you get started, we talked with Dana McMahan, a competitive powerlifter who says finding her inner strength has changed her life and made her incredibly confident, happy and fearless. Here’s how you can get started lifting weights: More »