Share and Follow
You don’t have to do crunches to tone your belly. There are many other exercises that can assist you in getting a flat tummy, as per experts. Jenna Willis, a renowned fitness trainer and health expert, creates effective strength training workouts for high-profile clients like Camila Cabello and Lala Kent. She believes that targeting the core doesn’t necessarily require crunches or extensive time commitment but rather smart, intense exercises that engage multiple muscles simultaneously in a challenging, practical, energetic, and enjoyable way.
Reverse Lunge Twist High to High Knee Hop
One of the exercises suggested by Willis is the reverse lunge twist high to high knee hop. The technique involves starting in a standing position, stepping one leg back into a reverse lunge while twisting your upper body towards the front leg. As you rise, lift your knee high and incorporate a hop at the apex. Willis mentions that the move can be adapted by omitting the hop and focusing solely on the twist.
Push-Up to Knee Tap Plank Hold
Another exercise recommended by Willis is the push-up to knee tap plank hold. She explains the process: perform a push-up (either on your knees or toes) and then sustain a firm plank position at the peak. Following this, gently touch one knee to the ground at a time while keeping your hips stable, akin to balancing a glass of wine on your back.
Side Plank Hip Dips
The third exercise is side plank hip dips. “From a side plank (on your forearm or hand), lower your hips toward the floor, then lift them back up—like a mini wave. Keep your body in one straight line and squeeze through your side waist at the top,” she suggests.
Forearm Plank Walk to Pike Jack
The final exercise is forewarm plank walk to pike jack. “Start in a forearm plank. Step one hand up at a time into a high plank, then walk them back down, controlled and steady. From your forearm plank, jump both feet up into a pike (hips high), then back out,” she instructs.
Do These Exercises Circuit Style
Willis recommends runnning these exercises “circuit-style,” doing 40 seconds on, 20 seconds off. “Three rounds if you’re feeling bold. Trust me—your abs will feel it without a single crunch,” she says.
