A traditional situp is a strength training exercise that helps tone the stomach. If you want a flat stomach, you need more than just situps. Combine cardio activity and other strength training activities to target your entire midsection. Using this method will assist with meeting your goal for a flat stomach.
Cardio Activity
You need more than just situps to flatten the stomach. Toning movements, like situps, will tone the muscles. However, cardio activity sheds high amounts of calories. When your body burns more calories than it needs, it taps into your fat reserves. This process causes weight loss. To burn body fat quicker, perform high-intensity activity such as jogging, which sheds 584 calories an hour for a 160 lb. person, according to MayoClinic.com. Swimming laps is another option, burning 511 calories an hour. Inline skating and running both burn more than 900 calories during an hourlong session. Talk with your doctor about the right activity level for you.
Squat with Twist
Traditional situps don't flatten the sides of the abdominals. Target this area with the squat-with-twist exercise. Start in a standing position, with your shoulders pressed back and your core muscles relaxed. Slowly get into a squat position, extending both arms to shoulder height in front of your body. Twist your upper body to the left, keeping your core muscles contracted. Return to starting position and repeat eight to 12 repetitions on each side of the body.
Pelvic Tilts
Pelvic tilts target the lower section of the abdominal muscles. This is an area that traditional situps don't target. Lie down on your exercise mat. Bend your knees and tighten your core muscles. Extend your buttocks towards the ceiling, keeping your tummy muscles contracted. Hold for 10 seconds and release. Relax for a few breaths and continue to repeat at least 10 times.
Frequency of Strength Training
If you want to flatten the stomach, strength training consistency is important. Plan a minimum of two strength training sessions weekly, recommends MayoClinic.com. Each session should target a variety of abdominal muscles. Aim for sessions that last about 20 to 30 minutes. Never schedule back-to-back strength training sessions for the same muscle group. For example, workout your abdominals Monday and Wednesday, instead of Monday and Tuesday. This will help your abdominal muscles heal and prevent injury.
Member Comments