If you are looking for a faster route, there are some straightforward exercises that, when added to your regular routine, will accelerate your progress!
Oblique Mountain Climbers
To tone your tummy, you have to try Mountain Climbers! These bad boys target all your core muscles in one go, with an added cardio benefit (raised heart rate, fat burning).
The trick is to try them on your toes, and to maintain a straight plank position (rather than arching your back). Not only do Mountain Climbers bring you closer to a toned tummy, but they also strengthen your thighs, shoulders and back, as well as being amazing for your heart.
Sprint Intervals
It’s important to incorporate some hard cardio into your ab routine, and nothing beats sprinting intervals for pure fat-burn. Find a long stretch where you can do 30 second sprints back-and-forth for 12 reps.
Remember to pay attention to deep belly breathing to help prevent those nasty side stitches!
Side Plank with Leg Raise
Planking burns a lot of kilojoules and is extremely valuable for the core strength of your body. It not only works on building a tighter tummy, but it’s an all-rounder with improved posture as well as better balance and coordination.
When we’re talking about Leg Raised Side Planks, simply think side planks on steroids! Start by lifting your top leg up, keeping your body straight at the same time. You can come down to your knees if your toes are too advanced.
Russian Twists
Russian twists are a total core exercise, perfect for balance and losing belly fat. You can use a light weight, e.g. dumbbell, kettlebell, or plate for a bigger burn, but this works just as well with no props at all! If you do choose a weight, go for something between 5 to 8kg where you’ll be able to target your obliques, which helps create those muscle contours.
Scissor Kicks
This is definitely one to add to your tummy toner workout if you’re looking to build and maintain core strength. These won’t feel as strenuous as the other exercises, but believe me when I say they’re absolutely awesome for toning your tummy. This is because they work your lower abs, an oft-forgotten area that’s crucial to strengthen and shape!
When working on your tummy, don’t forget that slow and steady wins the race with these types of exercises. Slow things down, breathe deep and work hard to keep good form from start to finish. If you feel it slipping then take a break before giving that exercise another go. Trying a less intense option is a
safe way to build strength and confidence in your progressions. If you’re consistent in your efforts, you’ll have a toned tummy before you know it!
You can start Michelle Bridges’ 12WBT on the first Monday of each month. The next round of 12WBT commences on 3 January, 2022. Head to www.12wbt.com to join.
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