How to Get Rid of a Chubby Belly

A toned stomach is the result of diet, exercise and proper strength training.

A chubby belly is excess weight that has accumulated around your mid section. A chubby belly can be the result of poor diet, lack of exercise, genetics or hormonal changes. According to the Mayo Clinic, "Excess belly fat increases your risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and certain types of cancers." Getting rid of your chubby belly requires a combination of proper diet, cardiovascular exercise and abdominal strength movements.

Instructions

1. Eat a diet high in vegetables, fruit, lean protein and whole grains. These foods will fuel your body without adding on excess weight. Avoid fast food, refined sugars, deep-fried foods and other junk food.

2. Exercise at a moderate level for a minimum of 30 minutes five times a week. If you have a gym membership, use the treadmill, elliptical machine or stationary bike. If you don't use a gym, try speed walking, jogging, bicycling, hiking or skipping rope.

3. Perform ab crunches each day to strengthen your abdominal muscles. Try bicycle crunches to efficiently work your entire belly. Lay on the floor with your legs bent at the knees and your feet lifted off the ground. Fold your hands behind your neck and reach your right elbow across to the left opposite knee while keeping the opposite right leg straight out. Cross to the other side and repeat for 15 repetitions. A rep is an elbows to each opposite knee one time.

4. Perform a plank exercise for at least 15 seconds each day. Lay on your stomach on the floor. Lift your body up onto your forearms and toes. Contract your stomach muscles and buttocks to prevent your back from sagging. Work your way up to holding this position for 60 seconds.

Tips & Warnings

• Always consult your physician before starting a new exercise program.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Belly Fat in Women: How to Keep it Off
• Fitness Magazine: Our Top 10 Abs Exercises
• Mens Health: The Six Greatest Ab Exercises of All Time