Dealing with belly fat can be a major challenge for many in the fitness world. It can be tough to figure out the right plan of action, but Denise Austin, a well-known fitness expert, is here to help. With over 40 years of experience in the industry and the creator of Fit Over 50 Magazine, she is a true inspiration for those seeking a healthy and active lifestyle. Denise has valuable insights on how to tackle stubborn belly fat, and she has some favorite exercises that can make a difference.

Besides being a cosmetic concern, belly fat poses serious health risks. Visceral fat, the type that accumulates around the organs, can lead to severe health issues like cardiovascular diseases, cancer, dementia, and respiratory problems. If you find yourself troubled by excess belly fat, Denise’s exercises are designed to help you combat this issue for better overall health.

Standing Crunch

Denise recently showcased one of her effective exercises on Instagram aimed at targeting the lower belly area, which is often a challenging spot for many women. This exercise, known as the standing crunch, can help you focus on toning and strengthening those stubborn lower belly muscles.

1. Stand tall with your feet hip-distance apart.
2. Hold a dumbbell in each hand and lengthen your arms overhead, making sure they stay close to your ears.
3. Activate your core muscles and pull your belly button in.
4. Lift your right knee in toward your chest while bringing your arms down in front of you with bent elbows.
5. Return to the start.
6. Repeat on the other side, aiming for 1 minute on each leg.

5 Bodyweight Moves Women Over 50 Should Do Daily, Trainer Says

Jab Cross

Another exercise Denise favors to address stubborn belly fat is the jab cross, a kickboxing-inspired move.

1. Assume a boxing stance with feet shoulder-distance apart and dominant foot back, knees slightly bent.
2. Hands should be up by your face.
3. Extend your lead hand, slightly rotating the lead shoulder and hip as you do so.
4. Return to the start.

15-Minute Workout That Torches Belly Fat Like a 5K, Trainer Says

Prisoner March

If you want to tighten your tummy, Denise has an excellent move that will train your lower abs.

1. Stand tall with your feet hip-distance apart.
2. Place your hands at the back of your head, keeping your elbows wide.
3. Brace your core.
4. Lift your right knee up toward hip level, maintaining a tall chest.
5. Lower your right leg and immediately raise your left knee.
6. Continue to alternate with control, marching in place.

5-Day Workout Plan That Melts Belly Fat for Men Over 50, Trainer Says

Standing Ab Twist

Denise calls the standing ab twist a “torso trimmer.”

1. Stand tall with your feet hip-distance apart and knees slightly bent.
2. Bring your arms up to shoulder level.
3. Activate your core and quickly rotate your torso to the right, reaching your left arm toward that side.
4. Return to the center.
5. Rotate to the left.

Alexa Mellardo