These Low-impact Aerobic Exercises Will Shrink Your Stomach, Trainer Says

"I hate running." I hear this statement over and over again as a trainer. Many of my clients think that running is the only form of cardio that will allow them to lose weight and have a toned tummy. That couldn't be further from the truth. First off, if you hate running, don't run! You will never create a consistent daily movement routine if you force your body to move in a way you don't actually enjoy. Second, any form of exercise that increases your breathing and heart rate is considered an aerobic activity. Third, running is a form of high-impact training, so it can be extremely hard on your knees, joints, and back over time. Because cardiovascular exercise is an essential part of an overall healthy lifestyle, I've put together the most effective low-impact moves you can do anytime and anywhere that will fire up your core and shrink your stomach.

Read on to learn more about these effective exercises, and get ready to shrink your stomach. And next up, don't miss The 6 Best Exercises for Strong and Toned Arms in 2022, Trainer Says.

Commandos

This is one of my favorite exercises, as it will light up your arms and abs immediately. Begin in a classic plank with your hands underneath your shoulders, your hips in line with your shoulders, your heels driving back, and your gaze forward. Lower your right forearm down to the mat and then your left forearm to come into a forearm plank. Then, raise onto the palm of your right hand and straighten your arm, and do the same with your left to come back into a classic plank. Continue going from plank to forearm plank, alternating the arm you start with first. Make sure to keep your hips as steady as possible to really engage your core and shrink your stomach.

Alternating Side Plank

demonstrating side plank to shrink your stomach — Jacquie Smith

Side planks are necessary to create defined lines in your obliques. Begin this exercise in a forearm plank position, then move your right forearm to be parallel with the top of your mat while stacking your feet and hips and extending your left arm over your shoulder towards the ceiling. Hold for a second, and then switch sides by lowering your left forearm down and restacking your body on this side. Continue alternating sides, and make an effort to focus on your form as your heart rate increases.

Squat to Standing Oblique Crunch

squat to oblique crunch to shrink your stomach — Jacquie Smith

This move is great for strengthening your lower body and your heart. With your feet slightly wider than your hips and your toes pointed out, bring your hands behind your head with your elbows out to the sides, and lower your butt back into a squat. Hold for a second at the bottom, and then lift your hips back up. As you do so, crunch your right knee into your right elbow as you stand up tall. Drop your right foot back down, and come back into your squat. Continue alternating legs in this fashion.