4 Bodyweight Workouts to Help You Lose Belly Fat

Whether you’re trying to shed a few pounds, or you’re always on the hunt for new ways to tone, incorporating a few high-intensity bodyweight workouts into your routine is one of the most effective ways to lose belly fat. The best part about these belly burners? There’s no gym equipment necessary.

Complete each of the following exercises for 20 seconds and follow each set with a 10-second rest. Repeat the entire circuit 3 times for the most intense 7 minutes of your day. These exercises can be performed alone or tacked onto your daily fitness routine.

Jumping Jacks
An old P.E. class staple. The classic jumping jack is a simple way to help you lose belly fat due to the high number of calories that are burned during this intensive cardio activity.

Wall Sit
Think of wall sits as the cousin to the squat. When performed correctly, this stationary exercise is a great way to activate your abdominal muscles to help lose belly fat. To complete this exercise, stand with your back against a wall, place your feet two to three feet out in front of the wall, and slightly bend your knees. Lower yourself by sliding your back down the wall until your legs create a 90-degree angle and your knees are over your ankles. Look straight ahead as you hold the position for one minute.

­Note: If one minute is too challenging, start with 30 seconds, work your way to 45 seconds, and eventually you’ll be strong enough for one-minute wall sits.

Side Plank
Twice as challenging, twice as rewarding. Though more difficult than the classic plank, the side plank relies on your core to keep your body stabilized. To perform this exercise, lie on your left side with your elbow directly beneath your shoulder and your legs stacked. Place your right hand on your right hip. Then, brace your abs and lift your hips off the floor until your body forms a diagonal line. To take it to the next level, reach your arm toward the ceiling. Hold for 30 seconds, then switch sides, and repeat.  

Tricep Dips
Though most obviously an arm exercise, tricep dips are also a fantastic way to work out your core and trim belly fat. Find a sturdy surface in your home, like a bench or chair, and start by sitting with your hands on the edge of the surface. Extend your legs in front of you with your heels on the floor. Lift your hips off the surface by putting your weight onto your hands. Bend your elbows to lower your hips down toward the floor, then extend your arms to bring your hips back up toward your hands. Feel the burn. Repeat.