4 steps to a sexy mid-section

Whether you want the best body at the beach, or you just find no need for that spare tire you pass off as love handles, then your tummy should definitely be at the top of your priority list. The food you eat will play a role in getting rid of that excess bulge, but working out your torso muscles will make a huge difference in appearance, even before you begin burning fat.

With weak abdominal muscles, your tummy would appear much larger than you would like. Although, when working out your stomach muscles, they will remain tighter, even in their resting state.

Incorporate these exercises into your workouts and you’ll have a firmer, flatter tummy in no time!

1. Standing side crunches with single dumbbell

Hold a dumbbell (in the arm opposite to the side of your tummy you are targeting).

Slowly lower the arm with the dumbbell towards the ground (bending your body sideways, being sure you are not leaning forwards or backwards).

Straighten your body back to the starting position. (with this exercise you should feel a workout on the side of your tummy opposite to the hand holding the weight).

2. Hover (plank)

With your body facing the floor, place your forearms and toes on the floor, and lift the rest of your body off the floor.

Maintain this position for a period of 30 seconds.

NOTE: Be sure to keep a neutral spine throughout the period of the exercise.

3. Leg raises (static)

Lie down on the floor with your arms by your side and your legs extended.

Keeping your back and bottom on the floor, raise both your legs about 6 inches off the floor (keeping them straight and together).

Hold this for 30 seconds.

Repeat 4 times.

4. Crunches on exercise ball

(you will need an exercise ball for this one)

Lie down with the middle of your back resting on the exercise ball.

With your hands extended out in front of you, reach for your knees by squeezing your stomach and raising your chest.

Repeat 20 times.