If you’re trying to lose weight in your midsection, it’s important to stick to a great workout routine in addition to a well-balanced diet. And as it turns out, there are more options out there than hitting the treadmill or doing one hundred crunches. In fact, yoga is one great type of exercise to consider while you navigate your weight loss journey, especially if you’re after a stronger, more toned core.
To learn about some of the best yoga moves out there that can help you achieve the flat belly of your dreams, we spoke to certified personal trainer Vivian Yu. She told us that boat pose, plank pose, and warrior III are all great options. Learn more about each below.
1. Boat Pose (Navasana)
According to Yu, boat pose is a fantastic yoga move for anyone looking to burn a little belly fat. “This pose strengthens your abdominal muscles and promotes fat burning,” she tells us.
Here’s how it’s done, per her instructions:
1. Start seated with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
2. Lean back slightly and lift your feet until your shins are parallel to the floor.
3. Extend your arms forward, parallel to the floor.
4. If possible, straighten your legs.
5. Hold for up to 1 minute, breathing evenly.
2. Plank Pose
If you know anything about fitness, you probably already know all about the plank pose. Whether you’re doing yoga or not, this is one of the most common (and effective) exercises for feeling the burn in your abs. “Planks target the entire core, helping to burn fat and sculpt the waistline,” Yu explains.
She gave us the following instructions for this simple move:
1. Start on all fours.
2. Step your feet back to form a straight line from your head to your heels.
3. Keep your hands directly under your shoulders and your body firm.
4. Hold for up to 1 minute.
3. Warrior III (Virabhadrasana III)
Warrior III is another classic yoga pose that can do wonders for your core. “This pose demands core strength and helps reduce abdominal fat,” Yu assures us.
Find Yu’s instructions for doing this pose at home below:
1. Stand tall, then shift your weight onto one leg.
2. Hinge forward at your hips as you lift your other leg behind you, aiming for a T shape.
3. Extend your arms forward for balance.
4. Hold for up to 1 minute, then repeat on the other side.
The bottom line
Yoga can be a great way to target your core and improve your overall fitness. However, as Yu reminds us, “reducing abdominal fat primarily comes down to creating a calorie deficit through a balanced diet and regular physical activity.” However, implementing these yoga moves into your fitness routine will help sculpt and define your abdominal muscles.
READ MORE: 3 Simple Habits Weight Loss Experts Swear By For A Flat Stomach
