Ab Exercises To Lose Belly Fat

Many people want to spot-shrink their problem areas, such as their belly fat. While this is not physiologically possible, it is possible to burn body fat all over in order to flatten your tummy. According to Fitness Magazine, if you work at about 85 percent of your maximum heart rate you will burn an extra 50 to 150 calories during your first two hours after exercise, helping you lose more body fat all over and tighten your belly.

Scissors Pull-Back

This move will work your abdominals and obliques to help you burn more fat and build muscle. Sit on the floor. Flex your abs and lower your upper body slightly back toward the floor, lifting your feet off the floor so that your body makes the shape of a V. Extend your left leg out and rotate your torso to the right, tapping your right elbow to the mat. Return to the starting position and switch sides.

Plank Swipe

Get into a full push-up position, with your hands under your shoulders and your legs extended out from your body. Stack your left foot on top of your right foot, then lift your left foot slightly. Kick your left leg out to the side then return it to the stacked position, keeping your back and legs straight and your abdominal muscles tightened throughout the move. Repeat on the other side. The intensity of being in the plank position while performing another exercise--the leg kick--will work your body harder.

Mountain Climber

This exercise is harder than it looks. It will elevate your heart rate to help you lose fat and tighten your stomach. Begin in a push-up position, with your palms on the floor under your shoulders and your legs extended out so your body forms a straight line. Tighten your abdominal muscles and lift your right knee to your chest. Almost set the right knee down, but then quickly push it back while simultaneously lifting your left knee to your chest. You want to rapidly alternate legs. Try to time yourself for one minute to burn more fat and intensify your workout.

The Matrix

This exercise requires a five- to 10-pound medicine ball. Hold the medicine ball at stomach height and kneel on the floor with your knees set about hip-width apart. Elongate your spine and press the ball into your stomach. Flex your stomach muscles and lean back as far as you can while keeping your knees on the ground. Pause briefly, exhale and use your stomach muscles to return your body to the starting position. This exercise will help melt fat and build strong stomach muscles.