It is not uncommon to see a person performing countless crunches in an attempt to shed only belly fat and reveal a slim midsection. Unfortunately there is no such thing as an exercise that spot reduces. Cardiovascular exercise reduce overall body weight which leads to excess belly fat loss as well. When combined with belly toning exercises you can get rid of excess belly fat and achieve a slimmer midsection.
Jump Rope Interval Training
Jumping rope for exercise allows your body to experience a boost in metabolism, calorie expenditure and fat loss. Combining this activity with interval training enables you to complete your cardio session in 20 minutes and still lose more belly fat than if you used a stationary cardio machine at a lower intensity for 30 minutes. Jump rope slowly for 3 to 5 minutes to warm up your muscles and prepare your entire body for intense activity. Engage in fast jumping for 30 to 60 seconds, jump slowly for 1 to 2 minutes and repeat this cycle for 15 to 20 minutes.
Running
Running is not typically classified as a belly exercise but it actually engages your entire midsection. Running helps to burn excess fat while also toning the front and sides of your belly. According to Shape Fit, a 145 lb. person can burn up to 300 calories with 30 minutes of running. Start with small distances or increments of time every other day to allow your body to adjust to the new activity. If you are new to running start with 10 minute sessions and add 1 minute every week. If you run on a regular basis already try to run 3 to 4 miles every other day and add 1 mile to your session every other week. When your session becomes less challenging try running in a hilly area, moving at a faster pace and increasing the time or distance you run.
Toning Exercises
Toning and building the muscles that are in the belly will help to create a flat midsection as well as increase your body's ability to burn calories. The abdominal muscles can be exercised every other day as long as you allow 24 hours in between each session for rest and recovery. Perform 12 to 15 repetitions for each exercise you execute.
Bench leg raises help to tone the front of your belly. Lie on your back on a flat bench, hold onto the top or sides of the bench for balance and place your legs together 3 to 6 inches off of the bench. Use your belly muscles to lift your legs upward as high as you can, do not let your knees bend, lower back down and just before your legs touch the bench lift them up again.
Oblique crunches target the muscles that are on your sides, more commonly referred to as "love handles". Lie on the floor, bend your knees, place your arms behind your head and fix your gaze on the ceiling. Tighten your belly muscles, attempt to touch your right elbow to your left knee, lower back down and repeat on the opposite side.
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