What Are Some Exercises to Quickly Tone Abs for Women?

 

Belly fat is a problem that takes a serious toll on your health, increasing risk for type 2 diabetes, breast cancer and cardiovascular disease, according to MayoClinic.com. If you want to tone abs quickly, focus on more than strength training. Combining vigorous cardio activity with belly-toning moves will help you burn fat and quickly tone abs.

Pelvic Tilt

The pelvic tilt is an exercise that tones the lower portion of your abdominals. Start out lying on your exercise mat. Bend your knees slightly and tighten your core muscles. Lift your pelvis toward the ceiling and hold for five seconds. Release the contraction and rest for a few seconds. Complete eight to 12 pelvic tilts during your workout session.

Squat with Twist

The squat with twist is an exercise that helps you quickly tighten the sides of your abdominals. Start out in a standing position, with your feet about shoulder-width apart. Take a few deep breaths and lower your body into a squat position. Slowly rotate your upper body to the right and back to center, using your abs to power the movement. Complete eight to 12 repetitions of this exercise on each side of the body.

Arm and Leg Raises

Arm and leg raises use your balance to create a leaner midsection. Start out on your hands and knees. Keep your head in a neutral position, which means it's aligned with the spine. Contract the core muscles and extend your right leg to hip height. At the same time, extend your left arm to shoulder height. Use your core to keep the body stable for two counts. Release and repeat 15 to 20 repetitions on each side of the body.

Circuit Training

If you want to tone the abs quickly, it's important to include cardio activity in your routine. Circuit training is an approach that burns 30 percent more calories than typical weight workouts, according to "Fitness" magazine. First, start out with a tummy-toning exercise, such as arm and leg raises. Then, complete a few minutes of vigorous cardio activity, like jumping rope or jogging. Rotate back to strength training, however, select a new activity, such as pelvic tilts. Then, rotate back to your vigorous cardio activity.