Get your stomach in the best shape with these tips
If there was ever a time to seek midriff inspiration it would be now. It seems everywhere we turn toned tums are making an appearance from Olympic poster girl, Jessica Ennis, George Clooney’s girlfriend, Stacy Keibler, to Frankie Stanford from The Saturdays, these girls have been flaunting tummy’s to be proud of.
Add to that the growing trend for cut-out dresses and crop tops and it seems our stomachs, whether we like it or not, are seriously in the spotlight….but if your midriff is not quite ready to take centre stage just yet, don’t fear as having a marvellous midriff of your own might be easier to achieve than you think…
Try these tips and get some expert advice from The Chelsea Club’s, fitness expert Neil Johnson and that trim tum will becomes much more attainable.
#1: Isometric Crunch
Isometric crunches or more commonly known as stomach holds can be done whilst sat at your desk, in the car or at a computer. Sit with your back straight and clench your abdominal muscles for 10seconds at a time and then release.
#2: Standing Side Bends
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, and then with your right arm over your head, bend laterally to your left side as far as possible. Slowly bend back and do 15-20 repetitions, then switch sides. This exercise targets your oblique and lower back muscles, it is also effective in improving flexibility!
#3: Torso Rotations
Torso rotations are great for working your whole abdominal area, including your lower back. These are done with your body alone own or with a broomstick! Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, hands on your hips whilst keeping your lower body still, rotate your upper body as far to the left and right as possible. This should be done in steady movements for 15-20 repetitions at a time.
If using the broomstick, lay it across your shoulders and hold it with a wide grip.
#4: Lying Twist
The lying twist also works the oblique muscles and improves flexibility. Lie on the floor with your legs straight out in front of you and your arms are out to the side, with your palms flat on the floor. Lift your legs so that they are at a 90degree angle to the ceiling, then slowly lower them down to the right as far as possible and then slowly repeat on the left side. Continue to repeat this movement in a slow and controlled movement.
#5: Leg Lifts
Leg lifts are achieved by lying on the floor with your legs straight. Raise them 5 inches from the floor either together or on their own depending on your ability and hold them for about 30seconds. Your back should be close to the floor and be careful if you have previous back problems when doing this move.
#6: The Plank
This classic exercise is usually performed at the end of a work out however; it can also be done at any time and in front of the TV is ideal! You need to be in a similar position as a press up but rest on your forearms instead. Ensure you have a straight back and neck and hold this position for as long as you can, this is beneficial for your core muscles, especially your inner and outer abs.
Femalefirst Taryn Davies