
Belly fat is like that clingy ex who won’t leave. It’s pesky, annoying, and arrives uninvited. But here’s the thing, though you can’t spot-reduce fat, you can lose it through a combination of targeted exercises and proper nutrition. And losing belly fat isn’t just about aesthetics-it’s about health, confidence, and feeling stronger. So, if you are ready to ditch the fluff and embrace the grind, we’ve got you covered with 10 killer exercises to torch that belly fat. Plus, we’ve thrown in a 20-minute full-body HIIT workout to level up your routine. Let’s go!
1. Plank
Let’s start with the OG of core workouts the plank. It’s simple, effective, and works your entire body. To do it, get into a push-up position with your elbows directly under your shoulders and your body in a straight line from head to heels. Engage your core and hold for as long as you can. Start with 30 seconds and work your way up. Planks are great because they not only target your abs but also strengthen your shoulders, back, and even your glutes. Plus, they’re amazing for posture, which is always a win.
2. Mountain Climbers
If planks had a cardio upgrade, they’d be mountain climbers. This move is a full-body burner that’ll get your heart racing in no time. Start in a high plank position and drive your knees toward your chest one at a time, as if you’re running in place. Keep the movement quick and controlled for 30 to 60 seconds. Not only do mountain climbers target your core, but they also double as cardio, making them perfect for fat-burning.
3. Russian Twists
For those obliques (aka the side abs that give your waist definition), Russian twists are where it’s at. Sit on the floor with your knees bent and feet either on the ground or lifted off for more intensity. Hold a weight or clasp your hands together, then twist your torso side-to-side. You will feel the burn almost immediately, and that’s how you know it’s working. This move is excellent for sculpting your midsection and improving rotational strength.
4. Burpees
Love them or hate them, burpees are the ultimate fat-burning move. You start in a standing position, drop into a squat, kick your feet back into a push-up position, do a push-up, then jump back up. Do this as fast as you can for 30 seconds to a minute. Burpees work your entire body and are ridiculously effective for burning calories. They’re tough, but the results are worth it.
5. Bicycle Crunches
This is a classic ab move that everyone does for a reason, it works. Lie on your back with your hands behind your head and your knees bent. Lift your shoulders off the ground and alternate bringing your elbow to the opposite knee in a pedaling motion. Try to get 20 reps on each side. Bicycle crunches hit your upper and lower abs as well as your obliques, so you get a nice full-core workout.
6. Twisted Jumping Jacks
You know the classic jumping jack, but add a twist to it literally. As you jump, twist your torso to one side and then the other. Engage your core. Do this for 30 to 60 seconds. This move combines cardio with core engagement, making it a great addition to your belly-fat-burning routine. Plus, it’s super fun and easy to modify if needed.
7. Reverse Crunches
Reverse crunches are perfect for targeting the lower abs, which are often the hardest to tone. Lie on your back with your hands by your sides and your legs lifted at a 90-degree angle. Slowly lift your hips off the ground, crunching your lower abs. Lower back down with control and repeat for 15 to 20 reps. It’s a slower move, but trust us you’ll feel it.
8. High Knees
High knees are a killer cardio move that also engages your core. Stand tall and run in place, bringing your knees up as high as possible toward your chest. Pump your arms and keep your core engaged. Do this for 30 seconds to a minute. High knees burn fat, improve coordination, and build stamina.
9. Side plank with hip dip
This version of the classic plank is amazing to work your obliques. Place yourself in a side plank with your elbow under your shoulder and body in a straight line. Bring your hip toward the floor and then lift it back up. Do 10 to 15 reps on each side. This exercise adds just that little bit more intensity to the side plank so that it will be even more effective.
10. Flutter Kicks
Flutter kicks are a great move to burn out your lower abs. Lie on your back with your legs straight and lifted slightly off the ground. Keep your core engaged and flutter your legs up and down in small, quick motions. Do this for 30 to 60 seconds. It’s a simple move, but it’s super effective for targeting those hard-to-reach lower abs.
20-Minute Full-Body HIIT Workout
To truly take your belly-fat-burning game to the next level, here’s a quick 20-minute HIIT workout you can do anywhere. The point of this is to go all out during the work intervals and just rest enough to recover.
Warm-Up (3 minutes):
Jumping jacks (30 seconds)
High knees (30 seconds)
Arm circles (30 seconds forward, 30 seconds backward)
Circuit (Repeat 3 times):
1. Burpees (30 seconds): Go all out—jump high and make every rep count.
2. Mountain Climbers (30 seconds): Suck in your core and push through.
3. Plank to Shoulder Tap (30 seconds): Alternate tapping each shoulder without letting your hips sway.
4. Jump Squats (30 seconds): Land softly and use your legs to power back up.
5. Russian Twists (30 seconds): Grab a weight if you want to challenge yourself.
Rest (1 minute): Take a breather, sip some water, and get ready to go again.
Cool Down (3 minutes)
Cobra stretch (30 seconds)
Child’s pose (30 seconds)
These 10 exercises will crush belly fat and a killer HIIT routine to tie it all together. Consistency is key to seeing results. Show up, do the work, and trust the process. It’s not just about losing fat it’s about gaining strength, confidence, and a healthier you. Ready to slay? Let’s do this!
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