Workout Exercises to Get Belly Flat

Workout Exercises to Get Belly Flat
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Getting your belly flat requires major lifestyle changes, including modifications to your diet and exercise plan. Following a low-calorie diet will allow you to lose weight and flab from your gut, and performing the right exercises ensures that you get the toned and sexy midsection you've always wanted. You need to perform cardiovascular workouts to burn any fat covering your muscles first, however.

Duration

To lose weight and tone your belly, you need to exercise as often as possible. According to MayoClinic.com, this entails 45 minutes, five times a week committed to cardiovascular activity like power walking or cycling. Commit an additional 20 minutes at least twice a week to general strength training like pushups, squats, lunges and weightlifting.

Abdominal Hollowing

Abdominal hollowing is a kind of exercise that tones the deepest abdominal muscles. These are the muscles that support your body and allow you to stand up straight. Toning this area will also cinch in your waist and help you achieve a flat belly. To begin, get on your hands and knees on the floor. Let your belly relax and breathe deeply. When you exhale, pull your abdominal muscles inward and upward. Hold this contraction for 10 seconds, then relax. Repeat at least 10 times.

Reverse Crunches

Another exercise you can do to get your belly flat is the reverse crunch. This exercise puts limited strain on your back and tones your lower abdominal muscles, which are often overlooked by standard stomach exercises like situps and crunches. To start, lie on the floor with your knees bent, feet flat and your hands resting at your sides. Tighten your abs and pull your knees toward your chest. Slightly lift your hips off the ground. Lower back down slowly and repeat at least 15 times.

Bicycle Crunches

Bicycle crunches tone your side abdominal muscles. When toned, this area makes your waist look slimmer and helps draw in your belly. To start, lie on the floor with your hands behind your head, feet flat and knees bent. Tighten your abs and twist your torso to the right. Bring your right knee up, and try to touch your left elbow to it. At the same time, straighten out your left leg. Reverse to the other side and repeat at least 10 times on both sides.

References

Article reviewed by Eric Lochridge Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011

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