Please give me the best exercises to prevent "bra overhang." I recently developed these lovely little pockets of fat. I've noticed bra overhang is sadly neglected -- at the gym, in women's magazines, and in popular exercise videos. When I tried a few machines at the gym, I found myself with extremely twisted muscles that sent shooting pains down the sides of my arms. Any ideas?

Bra overhang may be one of the few fitness problems that can be solved by shopping at Bloomingdale's. This bra overhang, as you've so appropriately named it, may mean it's time to invest in some new bras. Maybe the elastic has stretched out of your old ones, or maybe your bra size has changed. When you shop for a new bra, ask an experienced salesperson to help fit you properly. A good salesperson can help you select the proper style for fit, comfort and Bappearance.

You can improve the appearance of your breasts with exercise too. Much of the mass that makes up the breasts is fatty tissue, so getting rid of fat here requires much the same strategy as getting rid of fat in other areas of your body: A regular program that includes cardiovascular exercise, strength training and a sensible diet. Cardiovascular workouts such as running, aerobics classes or cycling are the best way to burn off excess body fat. A strength-training program where you work every part of your body will help build muscle, which will in turn increase your metabolism so you will burn more fat and calories even at rest. A good diet that's low in fat and packed with fiber and that contains a good balance of wholesome, nutritious foods is the best way to keep your calorie intake in check.

Unfortunately, you can't specify where you will burn off the fat. Doing exercises such as pushups, bench presses and chest flys build your chest muscles but will not burn off fat in that area. However, stronger muscles always look tighter and more toned, so doing strength-training exercises at least twice a week should help reduce that overhang.

One last thing: If the machines you've tried at the gym caused shooting pains in your arms, there's something wrong. Please check your form with an experienced trainer to make sure you're using the machines properly. ANY exercise that continues to cause the type of pain you're describing should be eliminated from your program. To be on the safer side, hire a trainer for a personal training session or two. If you can't do that, add only one new exercise per workout so you can keep close tabs on how your body responds to different exercises.

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