Ridding stubborn belly fat is a high priority on many of our lists, so what exactly does it take to zap an undesirable midsection? The "secret" is actually to strengthen both your upper and lower body, because there's no such thing as spot reduction. But there are specific exercises you can do to help you achieve the core of your dreams . . . with the help of a healthy diet, of course. In addition to the 12 moves ahead, you'll want to combine them with some form of the following workouts:
Now, let's get into specific exercises that go beyond boring crunches.
Get ready to obliterate your obliques with the ultimate core move. Mountain climbers are especially great because they provide intense cardio also. Start in plank position and prepare to burn some major calories.
Incorporating deadlifts into your routine will help you work the glutes and balance out the lower half of your body. It's also more effective than a regular squat because it simultaneously engages your arms and upper body.
Using battle ropes is a fantastic full-body exercise: in addition to forcing you to engage your core, your entire body will need to kick into gear to stabilize you. On top of that, your heart rate will shoot up while your fat melts away. Here are two variations to start out with.
Try to do three sets, with rest in between. Each week, challenge yourself by extending the time of each set.
An effective way to carve and strengthen your deep front and side muscles is side planks. Fire up your obliques and arms at the same time.
This killer move focuses on your lower abs as the bottom half of your body is in full control of the ball. First things first: make sure the ball is sized to your body; you should be able to sit on the ball with 90-degree angles at your hips and knees. If you don't have an exercise ball, use two sliders or paper plates on carpet to slide up to pike position.
Sorry to break it to you, but burpees are just as effective as they are hated. It's the perfect way to work your entire body and keep your heart rate elevated.
Master this move and you'll have those lower abs showing in no time.
Add weights to Russian twists to blast your front ab muscles, transverse ab muscles, lower back, and obliques.
Achieving a flatter midsection isn't possible with a weak upper body. Lats are the biggest muscle in the upper half, so strengthening this area will help you burn more above the waist. Lat pull-downs are also a good one to add.
On top of working your abs and obliques, this move also doubles as a great thigh toner. If hanging leg raises are too advanced for you, try this floor variation instead.
You won't find a better combination than front squats. Not only do they train the hips for strength, but they also promote stability and form in your core and lower back. Start with kettlebells first, and then work up to a barbell if you can.
This exercise works your core, shoulders, back, traps, and arms, all while helping you build muscular endurance. Bonus: your heart rate will stay elevated, which means you're torching calories.