A trim, taut belly is the goal of many, especially those who are on a diet. Since you cannot spot train, or lose fat in your belly alone, you must perform a variety of exercises that help you shed excess fat. You can also target your abs with a series of resistance exercises, that work your upper and lower abs, as well as oblique muscles.
Cycling
Cycling provides an effective ab workout since it burns calories and strengthens your core. It increases heart rate, cranking up your fat-burning engine, and it builds lean muscle in the process. Try using a stationary bike that works your upper body as well as your lower body, increasing your calorie burn. Aim for at least 30 minutes of cycling per session.
Bicycle Crunches
Cardio bicycling can help tone your midsection, as can doing bicycle crunches for strength training. These exercises work all of your major ab muscles, including your obliques on the sides of your belly. For bicycle crunches, lie down on your back, bend your knees and place your hands behind your head. Slowly lift your legs off the floor and rotate your legs back and forth as if riding a bicycle. Raise your right elbow to your left knee, then your left elbow to your right knee, and then repeat this cycle. Do this exercise as fast as possible for 30 seconds, then rest for 30 seconds. Repeat for three sets.
Side Bends
This exercise is effective for those who do not like to lie down on the floor to work ab muscles. Side bends are done from a standing position, and they tone your upper oblique muscles. Grab a couple of barbells, let your arms rest by your side, place your feet shoulder-width apart and lean your body to the right. Once your right hand reaches the side of your knee, pull up to starting position. Repeat on the left side. Do four sets of 20 reps on both sides.
Interval Training
Take your favorite aerobic activity and kick it up a notch with interval training. This is where you alternate high- and low-intensity exercise for a couple minutes each. For example, run for a minute and walk for a minute. Bicycle uphill for a couple minutes, then ride on a level surface for a few minutes. Repeat this cycle over and over. This allows you to burn ample calories while cutting your workout time in half. Aim for at least 20 to 30 minutes of interval training on most days of the week.
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