When it comes to getting a flat belly and toned abs, there’s no shortage of advice. But if you’re looking for guidance from one of the best in the fitness world, Yasmin Karachiwala, a renowned fitness expert and celebrity trainer, has you covered. Known for her practical and easy-to-follow workout routines, Yasmin believes in focusing on core strength to get rid of stubborn belly fat and achieve a sculpted midsection.
In this article, we’ll dive into five of Yasmin Karachiwala’s most recommended ab exercises that you can incorporate into your routine to help you flatten that belly and build a stronger core. These exercises are simple yet incredibly effective, requiring no special equipment, making them perfect for at-home workouts. So let’s get started!
1. Plank to Push-Up
Why it works:
The plank to push-up is an excellent exercise for toning your abs, shoulders, and arms while also engaging your core. It targets both the upper and lower abs and helps you improve your overall core stability.
How to do it:
- Start in a forearm plank position, keeping your elbows directly beneath your shoulders.
- Your body should form a straight line from head to heels.
- Engage your core and lift one hand off the ground, placing it on the floor to press up into a high plank (push-up position).
- Lower one hand back down to return to the forearm plank position.
- Repeat this movement, alternating the arm you use to press up.
- Aim for 10–15 repetitions on each side.
Tips:
- Keep your body as straight as possible throughout the movement.
- Don’t let your hips sag, as this can strain your lower back.
- Engage your core and tighten your abs for better control.
2. Bicycle Crunches
Why it works:
Bicycle crunches are a great way to target the upper and lower abs as well as your obliques. This dynamic move increases the intensity of a traditional crunch, giving your abs a more challenging workout.
How to do it:
- Lie on your back with your knees bent at a 90-degree angle.
- Place your hands behind your head, but don’t pull on your neck.
- Lift your upper body off the ground, bringing your right elbow toward your left knee while extending your right leg out straight.
- Switch sides by bringing your left elbow toward your right knee while extending your left leg.
- Continue alternating sides in a controlled manner, as if you’re pedaling a bicycle.
- Aim for 20–30 repetitions.
Tips:
- Focus on the twist and squeeze in your core, rather than rushing through the movement.
- Keep your back flat on the floor and don’t arch it.
- Maintain slow and controlled movements for maximum engagement.
3. Leg Raises
Why it works:
Leg raises primarily target the lower abs, which are often harder to tone. This exercise is especially effective for targeting that stubborn lower belly fat. It also helps improve overall core strength and stability.
How to do it:
- Lie flat on your back with your legs extended and arms by your sides.
- Slowly lift your legs toward the ceiling while keeping them straight.
- When your legs are almost perpendicular to the floor, lower them slowly back down, without letting them touch the ground.
- Repeat this motion for 12–15 reps.
Tips:
- Keep your core engaged throughout the movement to protect your lower back.
- If you find the exercise too difficult, you can place your hands under your hips for added support.
- Do not swing your legs; control the movement both up and down for maximum impact.
4. Russian Twists
Why it works:
The Russian twist is a fantastic exercise for targeting the obliques and strengthening the entire core. It helps in reducing love handles and improving your rotational strength, which is important for overall mobility.
How to do it:
- Sit on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat.
- Lean back slightly, keeping your back straight and chest open.
- Clasp your hands together in front of you and lift your feet off the ground (if you can), balancing on your sit bones.
- Twist your torso to the right, bringing your hands toward the floor beside your hip, then twist to the left.
- Continue twisting from side to side, keeping your core engaged.
- Do 20–30 twists, alternating sides.
Tips:
- Keep your movements slow and controlled.
- Focus on turning your torso rather than just moving your arms.
- For added intensity, hold a weight or a medicine ball in your hands.
5. Mountain Climbers
Why it works:
Mountain climbers are not only a great cardio move, but they also engage your core muscles, including the abs, obliques, and lower back. This full-body exercise burns fat and builds strength simultaneously.
How to do it:
- Start in a high plank position with your hands shoulder-width apart and your body forming a straight line from head to heels.
- Bring your right knee toward your chest, then quickly switch, bringing your left knee forward while extending your right leg back.
- Continue alternating legs at a rapid pace, as if you’re climbing a mountain.
- Aim for 30 seconds to 1 minute of continuous movement.
Tips:
- Keep your core tight and avoid letting your hips sag.
- Move as quickly as possible without compromising form.
- Focus on steady breathing while maintaining a high intensity.
How to Incorporate These Exercises Into Your Routine
Now that you’ve got the exercises down, let’s talk about how to use them effectively in your routine. The key to reducing belly fat and building toned abs is consistency, intensity, and proper recovery. Here’s a sample routine:
- Warm-Up: Start with a 5-10 minute warm-up, like jogging in place or doing jumping jacks, to get your heart rate up and prepare your muscles.
- Workout: Perform each exercise for 3–4 sets, aiming for 10–15 reps per set, depending on your fitness level.
- Cool Down: Finish with stretching and breathing exercises to release tension in the muscles and help with recovery.
Incorporate these exercises 3–4 times a week for the best results. Remember, consistency is key, and pairing these exercises with a balanced diet will help you achieve a flatter belly faster.
Yasmin’s Additional Tips for a Flat Belly
While the exercises above are fantastic for targeting your abs and core, diet and overall fat loss play a major role in achieving a flat belly. Yasmin often recommends these additional tips:
- Eat a balanced, clean diet with lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbs.
- Hydrate properly to keep your metabolism firing and reduce bloating.
- Incorporate full-body workouts like cardio and strength training for overall fat loss.
- Get adequate rest to support recovery and muscle growth.
Final Thoughts
Getting a toned, flat belly takes time, patience, and consistency. By incorporating Yasmin Karachiwala’s five recommended ab exercises into your routine, you’re well on your way to building a stronger core and flattening that belly. Combine these exercises with a balanced diet, regular cardio, and overall strength training for maximum results. So, keep going, stay dedicated, and you’ll soon see the fruits of your hard work!
