Belly fat can be unattractive and potentially harmful to your health. A greater amount of belly fat increases the likelihood of heart disease, diabetes and kidney failure. According to the American Heart Association, there is a direct link between excess belly fat and increased risk of heart disease. There are many aerobic and strength exercises that help burn belly fat and tone the abdominals.
Aerobic Exercise
Exercise that increases your heart rate will burn belly fat. Jogging, bicycling and dancing help increase metabolism and burn fat around your core muscles. According to the Mayo Clinic, keeping your core muscles in shape is important for overall health. Choose an exercise you enjoy and do it at least half an hour every day.
Basic Ab Crunch
Combine cardio activity with ab crunches to tone your abs. Lie flat on your back and keep feet shoulder-width apart, firmly planted on the floor. Place hands behind your head, inhale, lift shoulders four inches off the floor and exhale during the lift. Keep your head in line with your spine with your lower back firmly planted on the ground. Do four sets of 25 repetitions with at least 30 to 90 seconds of rest between each set.
Twist Crunch
This exercise works abdominals and oblique muscles. Lie on your back, place hands behind your head and bend your knees. Twist toward the right, bringing your right elbow to your left knee. Straighten the left knee and twist your left elbow to your right knee. When doing this, be sure your head stays in line with the spine and keep your chin up. Do three sets of 20 repetitions. Rest for at least 30 to 90 seconds between each set.
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