Since Americans often view a flat tummy as the sexy, youthful ideal, it's understandable if you want to attain this look. However, your genetics determine the shape of your internal organs, which may leave even thin people with a slightly rounded stomach. Although it isn't possible for everyone to achieve a perfectly flat stomach, you can take steps to reduce the size of your tummy.
Targeted Exercise
Tighten and tone your tummy with exercises that target your abdominal muscles. Perform crunches and such core-strengthening exercises as Pilates. While spot-toning alone won't flatten your belly if it's covered by fat, strengthening your muscles improves your posture and makes your stomach appear smaller. Sit-ups offer limited benefits if you want to tighten your abs -- focus on the more effective crunches instead.
Aerobic Exercise
Get more aerobic exercise to achieve a flat tummy. Aerobic, or cardiovascular, exercises include biking, swimming, brisk walking, jogging and dancing. Performing cardio regularly boosts your metabolism and increases the number of calories you burn. Expending more calories helps reduce the fat covering your abdominal muscles.
Avoid Bloating
Reduce or eliminate stomach bloating, which can make your tummy look bigger and rounder than its actual size. Drink at least six to eight glasses of water a day to flush out excess sodium and prevent water retention. Limit the amount of gum you chew and avoid excess sugar and fast food, all of which can contribute to bloating.
Eat Well
Eat a well-balanced diet containing mostly whole foods. Examples of whole foods include lean meats, fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy and whole grains. Avoid processed foods and refined carbohydrates, including white flour and sugar. Reduce your calorie balance by consuming fewer calories and burning more calories through exercise. Eliminating 500 to 1,000 calories a day can lead to 1 to 2 lb. of weight loss a week.
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