Brilliant ways to get a flatter belly

By Debarati S Sen, TNN 

Worried why all your ab exercises aren't showing the results you want? Maybe you are missing something. These simple tips will make your workout work better for you...

Begin with small moves

 Begin easy — you cannot go on a cyclothon before you know how to cycle and similarly you cannot do 50 crunches the first time you learn how to do it. Work a small range — hold a plank for 20 seconds or do only 10 crunches in the beginning.

Warm enough?

 Some people do not realise the importance of a proper warm up before a workout session, and believe that it is a waste of time. But, warming up your muscles prevents injury. A little walking, marching on the spot, rotating your mid-section gently, bending forwards to touch your toe, etc can warm up your core for an ab workout.

Breathe

 Oxygen is important for your core muscles, if you want them to work their full capacity. So, don't hold your breath. Inhale when you are doing the easy part of the move, and exhale when you have to exert force.

For example — exhale when you are on the way up while doing crunches.

Don't get distracted

 If you thought only your muscles play an important role when it comes to doing those push ups, you were wrong — our mind too plays an important part in workout schedules. So, avoid watching TV while exercising, instead concentrate on the muscles, and feel them move, stretch and contract. It will improve your results.

Be an all rounder

 When you want a flat belly fast, the trick is to do movements in all dimensions. Don't just concentrate on crunches — include other exercises and asanas like Vakrasana that help you twist and turn your body.

Balance

 For strong abs you should try to incorporate some balance into your routine. Even something as simple as — standing on one leg while the other feet rests on your thigh, arms raised above your head and palms touching — the Vriksasana or the Tree pose.

Rest it out

 Your workout will only work for you if you give yourself adequate rest. Overworking your abs won't help. The rest will help the muscles recover and will make them stronger.

Slow and steady

 Speeding up your workout will not help. Slow down and you will burn fat better.

Try yoga

 Sick of gymming? Try yoga. Most yoga poses are excellent for strengthening the core. Yoga not only exercises your mind along with your body, but it makes you flexible and reduces your stress-levels.

Weight matters

 Your abdominal muscles could do better if they are challenged with some weights. With a kilo or so thrown in, your regular workout can give you even better results.

Pay attention to what you eat

 If you want washboard abs, you need to eat right — just going through gruelling gym routines day after day, will not work. A city-based nutritionist says, "Make sure your diet consists of plenty of protein, low fat milk and milk products, fruits and fresh vegetables.