When you’re short on time but still want to make progress on your fitness journey, a quick workout that targets your belly can be just what you need.
These 10-minute belly workouts are designed to help you tone your abs and strengthen your core, all in a short amount of time. So, whether you have a busy schedule or simply want to incorporate a quick routine into your daily workout, give these exercises a try.
1. Plank Challenge
The plank is a fantastic exercise for activating and strengthening your core muscles. Begin by getting into a push-up position with your hands directly under your shoulders.
Lower yourself onto your forearms and make sure your body forms a straight line from head to toe. Hold this position for as long as you can, aiming for at least one minute. As you become stronger, increase the duration of your plank. Challenge yourself and watch your abs become more defined.
2. Russian Twists
Russian twists are an effective exercise that targets your oblique muscles. Sit on the floor with your knees bent and your feet flat on the ground. Lean back slightly while maintaining a straight back and engage your core.
Lift your feet off the ground and balance on your sit bones. With your hands clasped together, twist your torso from side to side, touching the ground on either side of your body. Aim for as many twists as possible within the 10-minute period.
3. Bicycle Crunches
Bicycle crunches are a classic abdominal exercise that targets your upper and lower abs, as well as your obliques. Lie on your back with your knees bent and your hands behind your head.
Lift your shoulders off the ground and bring your left knee towards your chest while simultaneously bringing your right elbow towards it. Straighten your left leg and repeat the motion on the opposite side. Continue alternating sides in a bicycle-like motion for the full duration of the workout.
4. Side Plank Dips
Side plank dips are a great way to engage your oblique muscles and strengthen your core. Start by lying on your side with your legs extended. Support your body weight on one forearm, ensuring it is in line with your shoulder.
Lift your hips off the floor and create a straight line from your head to your toes. Lower your hips towards the floor, and then raise them back up. Repeat the movement for the specified time, and then switch sides.
5. Mountain Climbers
Mountain climbers are a fast-paced exercise that targets your abs, as well as your arms and legs. Start in a high plank position with your hands directly under your shoulders.
Bring your right knee towards your chest, and then quickly switch and bring your left knee towards your chest while extending your right leg back. Continue the movement in a running-like motion for the full duration of the workout. Feel the burn as your core is engaged and your heart rate increases.
6. Standing Oblique Crunches
Standing oblique crunches are a standing variation of the traditional crunch that solely focuses on your oblique muscles. Stand straight with your feet shoulder-width apart and your hands clasped behind your head.
Bend your torso from side to side, squeezing your obliques as you contract. Be sure to engage your core throughout the exercise to maximize the benefits.
7. Reverse Crunches
Reverse crunches are a great exercise for targeting your lower abs. Lie on your back with your legs extended and your arms by your sides. Lift your legs off the ground and bring your knees towards your chest.
Slowly lower your legs back down without letting them touch the ground. Keep your core engaged to control the movement. Repeat the exercise for the desired duration.
8. Plank Knee Tucks
Plank knee tucks are an advanced variation of the plank exercise that targets your abs and obliques. Begin in a high plank position with your hands directly under your shoulders.
Engage your core and bring your right knee towards your left elbow, then return to the starting position. Repeat on the opposite side, bringing your left knee towards your right elbow. Continue alternating sides for the full duration of the workout.
9. Heel Touches
Heel touches are a quick and effective exercise that targets your obliques. Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the ground. Lift your head, neck, and shoulders off the ground.
Reach your right hand towards your right heel, and then switch and reach your left hand towards your left heel. Keep a steady and controlled pace as you alternate sides, feeling the burn in your core.
10. Flutter Kicks
Flutter kicks are a dynamic exercise that targets your lower abs and hip flexors. Lie on your back with your legs extended and your arms by your sides. Lift your legs off the ground a few inches while keeping them straight.
Begin kicking your legs up and down in an alternating fashion, similar to the motion of swimming. Maintain a steady pace and engage your core throughout the exercise.
These 10-minute belly workouts are designed to be quick and effective, perfect for those days when you’re short on time. Incorporate them into your regular workout routine or use them as stand-alone workouts when you need a boost of energy.
Remember to listen to your body and modify any exercises as needed. Consistency is key, so try to make these belly workouts a regular part of your fitness routine and watch as your abs become stronger and more defined.