Stomach exercises are a key component of any fitness routine, especially when the goal is to shed excess belly fat. A toned and strong core not only enhances physical appearance but also contributes to overall health and well-being. Incorporating easy stomach exercises into your workout regimen can be an effective strategy for burning fat, as they specifically target the abdominal area. These exercises not only help in building muscle but also play a crucial role in boosting metabolism and increasing calorie burn.
We spoke with Sergio Pedemonte, certified personal trainer & the CEO of Your House Fitness, to learn about the three beginner-friendly stomach exercises that are the most effective in burning fat. Pedemonte revealed that planks, Russian twists, and palloff press are the exercises you should incorporate into your workout routine to keep burning more fat.
Planks
Planks are one of the simplest yet highly effective stomach exercises that can aid in burning fat. The beauty of planks lies in their ease of execution; they require no equipment and can be performed virtually anywhere. This exercise engages multiple muscle groups, including the core, back, and shoulders, strengthening them over time.
To perform planks easily and properly, Pedemonte shares how they should be done: Begin in a push-up position. If you're new to this, try holding the position for 15 to 30 seconds. For a modified version, you can bend your elbows and rest them on the ground. This is the difference between a traditional plank and a high plank.
Russian Twists
The Russian twist is another straightforward yet effective stomach exercise that can contribute to fat burning and core strengthening. This exercise involves sitting on the floor and twisting the torso to touch the ground on either side with or without weights. Its simplicity makes it accessible for individuals of various fitness levels. The Russian twist engages the oblique muscles, promoting a strong and toned midsection. As these muscles become more defined, they assist in creating a leaner appearance while also enhancing overall core stability.
Pedemonte shares that in order to perform Russian twists effectively, you should follow these steps: Lie on your back with your knees raised towards your chest. Touch your right elbow to your left knee and then your left elbow to your right knee. Start at a pace that's comfortable for you, and gradually increase the speed and repetitions as you get stronger.
Palloff Press
Pallof press/twists are a great choice for beginners looking to enhance core strength and burn fat. This exercise is relatively simple to perform, involving standing and using a resistance band to create resistance while twisting the torso. Pallof twists target the obliques and deeper core muscles, promoting stability and balance. This enhanced core strength can help protect the spine and improve posture, making it an excellent starting point for those new to fitness.
Pedemonte shares the simple steps and required equipments for this exercise: For this exercise, you'll need a cable machine or resistance band. If using a cable machine, adjust it to chest level and hold the attachment with both hands. Face perpendicular to the machine and press your arms forward, resisting any rotation. This engages your core muscles. If using a resistance band, anchor it to a stable point at chest height and perform the same motion.
