Struggling with stubborn lower belly fat can be frustrating, but the good news is that just a few minutes each morning can make a noticeable difference. Fitness experts recommend incorporating targeted moves into your routine that activate the core and boost your metabolism right at the start of the day. From scissor switches to other dynamic exercises, these four easy morning moves are designed to help tone your lower belly, strengthen your core, and kickstart your day with energy.
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1. Russian Twists
Russian twists are a highly effective abdominal exercise for toning the belly and strengthening the oblique muscles. They help target love handles and trim the waistline, leading to a more defined midsection.
"The rotational movement zeroes in on the obliques, helping carve out those abdominal muscles. When done with a weight, it also introduces resistance, further enhancing muscle engagement," White says.
How to perform Russian twists: Sit on the floor, lean back slightly, and hold a weight or ball in front of you. Twist your torso to one side, bringing the weight beside you, then switch to the other side.
2. Leg Raises
Leg raises are an excellent abdominal exercise that can effectively tone the belly and enhance core strength. Leg raises also engage the hip flexors and the transverse abdominis, contributing to improved core stability and posture.
"A stellar move for the lower abs, which are often tougher to target. The controlled motion required to lift and lower the legs without touching the ground intensely engages the lower abdominal muscles, leading to a tighter, more toned appearance," says White.
How to perform leg raises: Lie flat on your back, hands by your sides or under your hips for support. Keeping legs straight, lift them to the ceiling then lower back without letting them touch the ground.
3. Mountain Climbers
Mountain climbers are a full-body exercise that can be especially effective for toning the lower belly. In this exercise, you start in a push-up position and then alternately bring your knees toward your chest in a running-like motion.
"This dynamic move increases the heart rate, promoting fat burn. Simultaneously, the core is actively engaged as you pull the knees in, ensuring you're sculpting your abs," White shares.
How to perform mountain climbers: Start in a push-up position. Bring one knee toward your chest and then quickly switch to the other knee, similar to climbing.
4. Scissor Switch
Scissor switches are a fantastic core-strengthening exercise that targets the lower abs while also engaging the hip flexors and thighs. In this move, you lie on your back and alternately cross your legs over each other in a scissor-like motion.
This exercise keeps constant tension on the core, which helps strengthen and tone the lower belly area. It’s low-impact but highly effective for building stability and definition.
How to perform scissor switches: Lie on your back with your hands under your glutes for support. Lift both legs a few inches off the floor. Keeping your core tight, alternate crossing one leg over the other in a controlled scissor motion. Continue switching legs for your desired time or rep count.