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5 Cardio Moves Trainers Swear By for Burning Belly Fat Fast

These fast-paced, bodyweight cardio moves blast belly fat and boost your metabolism fast.

When it comes to shedding stubborn belly fat, cardio isn't just a box to check, it's your engine for transformation. But not all cardio is created equal. If you're spending endless time jogging and still not seeing results, it might be time to rethink your strategy. The best fat-burning cardio moves don't just get your heart rate up, they fire up your core, engage multiple muscle groups, and keep your metabolism elevated long after the workout ends.

The key is intensity and movement efficiency. These are the go-to moves that deliver results when you need to feel the burn and see change fast. They're powerful, they're functional, and they're designed to work your body from the inside out. Whether you've got 10 minutes or half an hour, this style of training is where serious fat loss begins.

You won't need any equipment, just your bodyweight and a willingness to push. Do each movement for 45 seconds with 15 seconds of rest between. Complete 2–3 rounds for a killer cardio core blast that can be done anywhere, anytime.

Lateral Skater Hops

Skater exercise. Fit woman doing interval workout outdoors against concrete wall
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The lateral skater hop strengthens the legs and glutes while spiking your heart rate. By jumping side to side, you activate stabilizing muscles and force your core to work overtime to control each landing. It's a high-energy move that mimics the dynamic action of skating, making it ideal for fat burn and lower-body conditioning. Plus, skater hops improve agility, balance, and coordination all in one.

How to do it:

  1. Start in a slight squat position with your weight on your right leg.
  2. Jump laterally to the left, landing softly on your left foot.
  3. Immediately push off to return to the right side.
  4. Keep the pace fast and the movement controlled, staying low to the ground.

Plank Jack to Shoulder Tap

fit man demonstrating plank shoulder taps to reach your ideal weight fast
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The plank jack with shoulder tap turns a static core hold into a dynamic calorie scorcher. The plank jack elevates your heart rate, while the shoulder tap challenges your stability and coordination. Together, they hit your shoulders, chest, abs, and glutes in one seamless motion. It's efficient, intense, and ideal for targeting belly fat while building strength.

How to do it:

  1. Begin in a high plank with your hands under your shoulders and feet together.
  2. Jump your feet out wide, then back together (like a jumping jack).
  3. Pause briefly to tap your left shoulder with your right hand, then your right shoulder with your left hand.
  4. Continue alternating between plank jacks and shoulder taps at a steady rhythm.

Jump Lunge Switches

forward lunge
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Jump lunge switches deliver a serious burn in your legs and glutes while cranking your heart rate. The explosive switch from one leg to the other recruits fast-twitch muscle fibers and taxes your cardiovascular system. It also improves balance, coordination, and muscular endurance. If you want an all-in-one move for strength and fat loss, this one delivers.

How to do it:

  1. Start in a lunge position with one foot forward and the other back.
  2. Jump straight up, switching legs midair.
  3. Land softly into the opposite lunge position.
  4. Keep your chest up, core tight, and transitions quick.

Mountain Climber Sprints

Strong Athletic Fit Middle Aged Man Doing Mountain Climber Exercises During Morning Workout at Home in Sunny Apartment. Healthy Lifestyle, Fitness, Recreation, Wellbeing and Retirement.
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A faster, more intense version of the classic mountain climber, the mountain climber sprint brings together cardio and core in one high-octane package. You'll torch calories fast while building endurance, coordination, and lower ab strength. The sprint pace keeps the intensity high and your metabolism fired up. It's a staple move for a reason, it just works.

How to do it:

  1. Start in a high plank with your hands under your shoulders.
  2. Drive your knees toward your chest one at a time as quickly as possible.
  3. Keep your hips low and core braced throughout.
  4. Move at a sprint pace, pushing the tempo for maximum effect.

Frog Jumps

Frog Jump
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Frog jumps target your quads, glutes, and core while sending your heart rate through the roof. Frog jumps mimic the explosive squat motion and build lower-body strength while maximizing calorie burn. Because frog jumps require both strength and speed, they're especially effective for fat loss and metabolic conditioning. They're tough, but they get results.

How to do it:

  1. Start in a deep squat with your hands on the floor in front of you.
  2. Explode forward and upward, jumping as far as you can.
  3. Land softly back into the squat and repeat without pausing.

Keep your chest lifted and your movements powerful and controlled.

Tyler Read, BSc, CPT
Tyler Read is a personal trainer and has been involved in health and fitness for the past 15 years. Read more about Tyler
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