What Exercises Can I Do to Tone the Lower Stomach?

What Exercises Can I Do to Tone the Lower Stomach?
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Stomach fat is difficult to burn. As you get older, midsection fat becomes even more problematic as muscle is replaced with fat. If you struggle with lower stomach weight, toning exercises will assist in achieving a flatter stomach. It's also important to schedule 30 minutes of cardio activity most days of the week to assist with burning midsection fat.

Abdominal Hold

The abdominal hold is a strengthening exercise that targets the lower abdominal muscles. Sit on a firm chair. Place your hands on the edge of the chair for balance with your fingertips pointed away from your body. Contract your abdominal muscles and pull your toes off the floor about 2 to 4 inches. Hold the contraction for up to 10 seconds and release. Repeat this exercise for a minute during each strength training session.

Arm and Leg Raise

This exercise uses balance to tone the lower abdominal muscles. Start on all fours with your knees placed under your hips and your wrists under your shoulders. Contract the core muscles and extend your left arm to shoulder height. At the same time, extend your right leg to hip height. Hold this movement for two counts, using your balance to strengthen the abdominal muscles. Return to starting position and repeat 15 to 20 repetitions.

Abdominal Hollowing

This targets the deep lower abdominal muscles. Get on the floor on all fours. Keep your midsection relaxed and take a few deep breaths. Slowly draw your abdominal muscles toward your belly button and hold the contraction for 10 seconds. Relax your abdominal muscles and rest for a few seconds. Complete 10 repetitions of abdominal hollowing during your workout session.

Circuit Training

Tone the lower abdominals and burn more fat with a circuit training routine. This routine helps you burn 30 percent more calories during your workout, resulting in a flatter lower midsection. Select a vigorous activity, such as running. Complete a few minutes of running and switch to core strengthening, such as the abdominal hollowing movement. Continue running for a few minutes, then select a new strength training movement, such as the arm and leg raise.

References

Article reviewed by Debbie C Last updated on: May 26, 2011

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