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A flat stomach isn’t about performing endless crunches—it’s instead about selecting exercises that engage the entire core while burning additional calories. After the age of 40, the midsection tends to hold onto stubborn fat, but the right exercises can simultaneously build strength, stability, and definition. Power-based exercises train your abs to work effectively with your hips, back, and shoulders, forming a leaner, more defined core.
The key is in the intensity and muscle engagement. These exercises test your balance, coordination, and strength simultaneously, making each repetition a full-body fat-burning workout. You’ll notice a difference in how your core supports you during both workouts and daily activities.
Commit to these four exercises for 30 days, and not only will your stomach appear flatter, but it will also feel stronger, tighter, and more powerful. Here’s how to achieve that goal.
4 Power Moves That Flatten Your Stomach Fast
Plank to Shoulder Tap
This dynamic variation takes the classic plank up a notch by forcing your core to resist rotation. Every tap challenges your stability while firing up deep abdominal muscles. It builds the kind of core strength that tightens your waistline while protecting your back.
How to Do It:
- Begin in a high plank with shoulders over wrists.
- Keeping hips steady, lift one hand to tap the opposite shoulder.
- Alternate sides, moving slowly and with control.
- Perform 10–12 taps per side.
Standing Knee Drive
This move mimics a powerful sprint, targeting your lower abs and hip flexors while spiking your heart rate. The explosive action helps burn fat while carving definition through your midsection. Done consistently, it trains your core to stay strong and tight under pressure.
How to Do It:
- Stand tall with feet hip-width apart.
- Drive one knee up toward your chest while pulling arms down in sync.
- Return to start and repeat explosively.
- Perform 15–20 reps per side.
Russian Twist
The twist hammers your obliques, carving out the sides of your waist while improving rotational strength. By holding the position and turning under control, you challenge your entire core to stabilize and tighten. It’s a simple but powerful move for a flatter stomach.
How to Do It:
- Sit on the floor with knees bent, holding a dumbbell or medicine ball.
- Lean back slightly, keeping your chest lifted.
- Rotate your torso to one side, then to the other.
- Perform 12–16 twists total.
Mountain Climbers
This move combines cardio and core training in one explosive motion. As your legs drive forward, your abs stay fully engaged to stabilize your body. Mountain climbers torch calories fast, making them a go-to exercise for flattening your stomach in less time.
How to Do It:
- Start in a high plank position.
- Drive one knee toward your chest, then switch quickly.
- Continue alternating at a fast pace.
- Perform for 30–45 seconds.
Looking for easy ways to lose fat? Here’s How Long Your Walking Workout Should Be To Shrink Belly Fat.
Tyler Read, BSc, CPT
