Core Strengthening Exercises to Flatten Your Stomach
Core strengthening exercises are essential for achieving a flatter stomach, as they target the muscles in your abdomen, lower back, and pelvis, helping to tone and tighten these areas.
While spot-reducing fat isn't possible, strengthening your core can improve posture, support daily movements, and enhance overall fitness, contributing to a leaner and firmer midsection.
One effective core exercise is the plank, which engages the entire core, including the rectus abdominis (the "six-pack" muscles), obliques, and transverse abdominis.
To perform a plank, start in a push-up position, but rest your weight on your forearms. Keep your body in a straight line from your head to your heels, engaging your core muscles.
Hold the position for as long as you can, aiming for at least 30 seconds and gradually increasing the duration as you build strength.
Another excellent exercise is the bicycle crunch, which targets the rectus abdominis and the obliques. Lie flat on your back with your hands behind your head, and bring your knees toward your chest.
Lift your upper body off the ground and twist your torso to bring your right elbow toward your left knee. Straighten your right leg while rotating your upper body to the other side, bringing your left elbow toward your right knee.
The leg raise is another powerful exercise for flattening the stomach, primarily working the lower part of the abs. To do this exercise, lie on your back with your legs straight and your arms at your sides for support.