How to Exercise to Tighten the Lower Stomach

How to Exercise to Tighten the Lower Stomach
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When trying to lose fat on your lower stomach, it often seems like the lower abdominal area is the last to get slim. These muscles tend to not be targeted by standard workouts. To remedy this, you need to focus on exercises that work your lower stomach specifically. With dedication to your exercise plan and a commitment to success, you should see a change in the firmness of your abdominal muscles within a few weeks.

Step 1

Perform reverse crunches to tighten and tone your lower stomach muscles. Start by lying on the floor on your back with your hands at your sides. Lift your knees up and your feet off the ground. Tighten your abs as you push your knees toward your chest. Lift your hips off the floor then lower back down. Repeat at least 15 times.

Step 2

Perform pelvic tilt exercises to condition your lower abs. Start by lying on the floor with your knees bent and spread apart slightly and your feet flat on the floor. Engage your abs and lift your hips off the floor. Hold for several seconds then lower back down. Don't strain your back. Use only your abs to perform this exercise. Repeat at least 15 times.

Step 3

Practice leg lifts to really give your abdomen a workout, including your lower stomach muscles. Start out by lying on the floor with your legs straight up in the air and your hands underneath your rear. Slowly lower your legs down until they are about six inches off the floor. Squeeze your thighs together and lift your legs back up to the starting position. You may be able to complete only a couple of repetitions of this exercise at first, but be patient. As you build endurance, increase the number of repetitions to 15 and beyond.

Step 4

Execute the Pilates exercise The Hundred to tone your lower stomach. To begin, lie on your back with your arms resting at your sides. Draw your knees in toward your chest and lift your head and shoulders off the floor. Slide your arms forward and lift them up slightly. Use your abdominal muscles to hold your head up. Don't strain your neck or back. Straighten out your legs at an angle and squeeze your thighs together. Pump your arms up and down as you inhale for five counts and exhale for five counts. Repeat 10 times.

References

Article reviewed by John Hagemann Last updated on: Feb 12, 2011

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