Scientists explain that belly fat is surprisingly complex and often misunderstood. If you're looking to reduce that extra bulge, regular exercise can be an effective way to target and eliminate the excess fat around your midsection.

Workouts to burn belly fat

Losing belly fat is a popular fitness goal, but what many don't realize is that it's also the most resistant fat in the body. Belly fat is difficult to burn because it contains more fat cells that are slow to respond. Here are some effective exercises that can help target and reduce that stubborn belly fat.

1. Burpees

Burpees are an excellent plyometric exercise that work the core, chest, shoulders, lats, triceps, and quadriceps. They are also great for elevating your heart rate, which helps in burning calories. For those at an intermediate level, it's recommended to aim for 100-150 burpees as quickly as possible.

2. Russian Twists

Russian twists primarily target the obliques and abdominal muscles. This exercise involves rotating your torso to the right and then returning to the center, before repeating the motion on the left side. Russian twists are effective for burning side belly fat, often referred to as the "muffin top." They are also highly beneficial for athletes, especially tennis and baseball players, as they improve rotational strength and stability.

3. Medicine ball slam

A medicine ball slam is a dynamic exercise that combines cardio with core strength. To perform this, you'll need a medicine ball and a protective mat to safeguard the floor. Medicine ball slams engage the shoulders, triceps, calves, back, and core. This exercise not only helps burn excess fat but also improves stamina, eye-body coordination, muscle tone, and functional fitness.

4. Tuck jumps

Tuck jumps are another excellent exercise for burning calories quickly and are highly effective for losing belly fat. Often used in physical education classes, tuck jumps are an explosive plyometric movement that boosts muscle power and raises the heart rate. Aim for two to three sets of 10-15 repetitions for optimal results.

5. Inclined walk

Walking on an inclined surface burns more fat than walking on a flat surface because it requires more effort with each step. One study even suggests that walking at an incline of 16-18% at a speed of 3mph can burn 70% more fat than running on a flat surface.