If you gain the bulk of your weight in your belly, having a nice, toned flat stomach can seem impossible--the first place you gain fat is often the last place you lose it. However, with the right combination of diet, cardio and targeted abdominal exercises anyone can have the flat, toned stomach of their dreams.
The Twist and Drop
The twist and drop is a beginner abdominal workout that not only works the abdominal muscles, but works the obliques, arms and legs as well. Start with you feet a little wider than shoulder width apart. Next bend your body at the hips, and place your hands about a foot forward in front of your feet. Contract your abs while lifting your left foot off the ground. Twist your body, placing your left leg in front of your right one. Then turn your right foot to the side, and bend your right knee. Finally drop your hips to the ground while keeping your left leg straight. Return to the starting position and repeat with the right leg. Complete 12 reps on each leg. Complete two sets.
Side Plank
The side plank is an intermediate flat belly workout that not only works the abdominal muscles, but targets the lower back muscles as well. Begin by lying on your side with your knees bent. Rest your weight on your forearm, and place your other hand lightly on your thigh. Next raise your body off the ground in a bridge position, making sure to keep your body properly aligned. Maintain the position until you can't hold it any longer. Return to the starting position and repeat 10 times. Complete 10 sets.
Egyptian Core Circles
An advanced abdominal exercise, Egyptian core circles also work the lower back. Begin with your feet shoulder width apart while contracting your abs and bending your knees slightly. Next raise your arms above your head with your hands together, and bend your elbows just slightly. In a counter-clockwise direction, move your torso in a circular motion. Complete 15 reps, and then repeat by winding your torso in a clockwise direction. Complete three sets.
Plank
The plank is an advanced flat belly workout that also works the arms, back and buttocks. Begin by lying on your stomach while resting on your forearms. Next push your body up into the pushup position while continuing to rest on your forearms. Keep your back straight, making sure your spine, hips and legs are aligned. Hold the position for 30 to 60 seconds. Return to the starting position, and repeat for up to two minutes.
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