E. 166 Why Your Waist Isn’t Getting Smaller (And What Actually Works)

E. 166 Why Your Waist Isn’t Getting Smaller (And What Actually Works)

From Self-Selecting by Cory Hageman

June 8, 2026 · 41 min

About this episode

This episode discusses the factors influencing waist size and debunks common fitness myths related to waist-shrinking strategies.

Why does your waist still look wide even after losing weight? In this episode, I explain the real factors that influence waist size, including body fat levels, muscle development, genetics, rib cage structure, hip width, abdominal training, and physique balance. I also break down common fitness myths surrounding waist trainers, lifting belts, fat-burning creams, and other popular waist-shrinking strategies. You'll learn how to create a more tapered physique, how to measure your progress correctly, and why building muscle in the right places often has a bigger impact than losing more body fat. If your goal is a smaller waist, stronger hourglass shape, better proportions, or improved physique development, this episode will help you focus on what actually works. Timestamps: - [00:00 – 03:15] - Why Your Waist May Not Be the Problem - [03:15 – 05:22] - The Two Factors That Actually Influence Waist Size: Fat & Muscle - [05:22 – 10:47] - Rib Cage Structure, Hip Width & Core Training Myths - [10:47 – 16:26] - Core Stability, Glute Training & Why You Can't "Turn Off" Your Abs - [16:26 – 19:30] - Waist Trainers, Creams, Wraps & Popular Waist-Shrinking Myths…

People in this episode

Host: Cory Hageman

Topics covered

  • waist size
  • body fat
  • muscle development
  • fitness myths
  • physique balance
  • core training

Keywords

  • waist trainers
  • lifting belts
  • fat-burning creams
  • core stability
  • hourglass shape
  • measuring progress

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