We all have had our moments of looking at ourselves in the mirror and wishing for a flatter tummy. While we all want that, working for it is the challenging part. With hectic lifestyles and busy routines, not everyone can make it to the gym. But the good news is you don’t always need expensive gym memberships and intense cardio sessions to burn belly fat; it can begin with just a mat. We are talking about Pilates, the easy movement exercises that not only help burn fat but also improve your flexibility and core strength. The best part is that you can do these exercises in the comfort of your home. So if you are looking to shed some pounds from your belly, here are some beginner-friendly pilates exercises to help you burn belly fat without a gym.
What is Pilates?
Athlete and personal trainer Joseph Pilates developed the Pilates exercise method in the early 1900s. Pilates includes over 50 exercises to strengthen muscles, improve posture, flexibility, and balance. It is a full-body, low-impact workout. Because it determines how the body moves outside of the studio or gym, trunk stability through core strength is the most crucial component of Pilates training.
Pilates places a great focus on the hip, pelvic floor, low back, and abdominal muscles, which propel and support the motions in sync with the breath. The Pilates technique also emphasizes quality over quantity. Unlike other exercises, Pilates does not require a large number of repetitions for each technique. The objective is to get major improvements faster by paying attention to the breath and doing each exercise precisely. Pilates appeals to many people because it allows them to gain strength without bulk.
Pilates Exercises To Burn Belly Fat
1- The Hundreds
This traditional Pilates practice strengthens the abdominal muscles, increasing endurance and burning calories. This workout works the rectus abdominis, internal and external obliques, hip flexors, and transverse abdominis. These muscles are essential for spinal and pelvic stability, as well as for efficient movement and balance. While lying on your back, raise your knees to the level of a table and raise your arms straight up. Inhale for five counts, then exhale for five counts while pumping your arms briskly. As your strength increases, progressively increase the number of sets to 10 sets of 10 reps.
2- Plank
A staple in core workouts, the plank is one of the most popular exercises to build core strength and lose fat. Staying in a plank position engages the arms, legs, and glutes, improves the abdominal muscles, and increases endurance. Position yourself on the mat with your face down, just like in a push-up. Place your toes on the ground and raise yourself so that your body is in a straight line. If you are a newbie, hold the pose for 20-30 seconds while looking straight. As you get more at ease, you can extend the time.
3- Single Leg Stretch
Single-leg stretch is an easy and beginner-friendly exercise that strengthens your core and legs while increasing your overall calorie burn and helping you lose tummy fat. To do this exercise, raise your head and shoulders while lying on your back. Extend one leg while pushing the opposite knee against your chest. Perform a scissor-like action with each leg, switching legs 12 to 15 times.
4- Double Leg Stretch
Double-leg stretch targets the rectus abdominis, transverse abdominis, and hip flexors. These muscles are essential for core stability, effective movement patterns, and injury prevention. Increasing the strength of these muscles improves posture, balance, and athletic performance. Begin by reclining down, then elevate your head and shoulders, extending both legs and stretching your arms overhead. Pull your knees back into your chest and wrap your arms around yourself. Do 10 to 12 repetitions.
5- Roll Up
Often referred to as “Pilates sit-ups,” roll-ups are a great way to strengthen your abdominal muscles and spine while also assisting in the burning of belly fat. Reach for your toes as you slowly roll up from a position where you are lying with your arms outstretched overhead. Roll down one vertebra at a time while taking a deep breath. Repeat 10 to 15 times for the whole set. This deliberate movement serves to strengthen your hamstrings and spine while also targeting your upper and lower abs.
6- Crisscross
The crisscross exercise is a dynamic Pilates technique that works the obliques and tones the core, particularly the deep ab muscles. This exercise works well for melting away love handles and shaping the waist. For this exercise, bend your knees while lying on your back on the mat. Lift your legs to the level of a table. Raise your head off the ground with your arms and place your hands behind your head. Straighten one leg after exhaling. Then, as you progress through the pose, take a breath and twist your torso toward the opposing knee. Continue with the opposing leg and turn in the opposite direction. Do 10–15 repetitions on each side using a controlled, alternating motion.
Final Thoughts
Pilates are simple and easy-to-do exercises that have various benefits for your core, strength, flexibility, and body movement. Pilates is not about pushing your body to its limits, listening to it, and following its rhythm.
The good thing about Pilates is that you don’t need expensive machinery or gym memberships. A Pilates workout can be a valuable addition to your weight loss regimen.Try to do these Pilates exercises three to four times a week, with days off in between. Pay attention to your body and adjust your workouts accordingly. If an exercise seems excessively difficult, cut back on the number of repetitions or the range of motion. As your strength increases, you can do more holds or repetitions.
Remember, an effective weight loss strategy is a consistent one. If you want to effectively lose weight and burn belly fat, it is important to follow a healthy diet routine and an active lifestyle. Pilates provides long-lasting benefits for overall health and well-being, not only for the waist, when paired with a conscious diet and an active lifestyle.
FAQs
1- How often should I practice Pilates to see belly fat reduction?
Doing Pilates 3 to 4 times a week consistently is ideal for building core strength and seeing gradual improvements in belly fat and muscle tone.
2- Do I need special equipment or gym access for Pilates?
No! Most Pilates exercises do not write any special equipments you can start doing them with a simple mat at your home
3- Are there other Pilates exercises than the ones mentioned?
Yes, Pilates consists of about 50 exercises to strengthen muscles and the core. In addition to the ones mentioned above, you can incorporate several other Pilates exercises in your routine.
4- Is Pilates suitable for beginners who want to lose belly fat?
Absolutely. Pilates is low-impact and focuses on controlled movements, making it great for beginners who want to safely build core strength and improve fitness.
5- How soon will I notice changes in my belly area from Pilates?
Most people notice results within a few weeks of starting Pilates workouts.
6- Can Pilates replace cardio for effective fat loss?
Pilates can not replace cardio in a weight loss routine; for an effective fat loss journey, you should combine both.
(The article is written by Ehsan Siddiqui, Team Lead, Clinical Health & Content and reviewed by Monalisa Deka, Senior Health Content Editor)
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