Exercise is an integral part of a healthy lifestyle, whether you’re hoping to lose weight, trim up, or simply improve your overall health and fitness levels. Getting involved in regular physical activity will improve the pace of your metabolism, build your strength and help to give you more energy throughout the day.

Ab exercises will help to trim you up around the stomach area and help you get rid of unwanted belly fat. Here are some of the best exercises to try if you’re hoping to trim down your middle.

#1. Running:

Many people make the mistake of thinking that it’s only ab crunches and sit-ups that make a difference when it comes to exercising to improve your abs. However, this simply isn’t true – if you’re hoping to lose weight from around your stomach area, it’s best to do vigorous cardiovascular exercise such as running, cycling, rowing or swimming. Anything that gets your heart pounding is a great choice! Even 10-20 minutes a day is a great start.

#2. Ab Roller:

This is a simple and easy exercise that can be done both at home and in the gym. It’s a great choice for anybody who prefers working out in the comfort of their own home.

You will need an abdominal roller, which is like a small wheel with a handle on each side. Get into a plank position and hold each handle before pushing it back and forth whilst stretching as much as you can. It may not be easy to start off with, but you will get used to it.

#3. Sit-Ups:

Sit-ups are a simple method of exercising your abs and can be done at any time, whether you’re at home or at the gym. To do a sit-up, simply lay back on the floor or a bench with your feet on the floor and knees slightly bent.

Your hands should be on your chest or behind your head; whichever is more comfortable for you. Then, pull yourself up into a sitting position using your abdominal muscles. It may help to have a friend hold your feet in place. Check out Work Out Box for more instructions and exercise ideas.

#4. Planking:

Lastly, planking is a great little exercise to incorporate into your workout with exceptional results. The best part is that all you’ll need is the floor – and a mat if you’re in the gym or want a bit more comfort.

You should be positioned straight with your hands and toes firmly on the floor and your whole body should be raised. Keep your back and legs as straight as you can and suck in your abdominal muscles. Hold this position for as long as you can! It’s best to start out small and gradually increase the length of your planks as you grow in strength.

Getting rid of stubborn belly fat and improving your abdominal muscles can take some work, but it’s entirely possible. Try these ab exercises today to improve your fitness, strength, and figure.