"8 Workouts for a Flat Stomach That Actually Work"
Let’s talk about the flat stomach everyone admires but few are willing to work for. It’s more than aesthetics—it’s discipline, strength, and a reflection of how you prioritize yourself. And if you’re here, I already know you’re serious about becoming your best self.
Here’s what we’ll cover in this post:
The 8 most effective workouts for sculpting a flat stomach
A bonus tip to supercharge your sweat sessions
How nutrition and mindset play a critical role in achieving your goals
For me, staying consistent with core workouts has been a game-changer. I even love pairing my sweat belt with Vasoburn to amplify my effort during workouts—it’s all about working smarter while staying intentional.
So, let’s dive in! Here’s how you can sculpt a flat stomach with workouts that actually work.
The Foundation of a Flatter Stomach: Core Confidence
The truth? A flat stomach is 80% what you fuel your body with and 20% how you train. But here’s the twist: it’s 100% mental. This isn’t about quick fixes or fads; it’s about owning your routine with the kind of focus that sets you apart. You’re not just working out for a flatter stomach—you’re shaping the discipline that will elevate every part of your life.
The Power Moves: Core Workouts That Work
These aren’t just any ab exercises. They’re intentional, efficient, and designed for someone who knows that every move should count. Think of this as your toolkit for a sculpted core and unwavering confidence.
1. The Plank
Why it works: This classic move strengthens your entire core—front, back, and sides—like the sophisticated multitasker it is.
How to do it: Begin with a forearm plank for 60 seconds. Focus on keeping your body in a straight line from head to heels.
Pro tip: Engage your core, glutes, and legs to maintain proper form and stability.
Gear Tip: A sturdy, non-slip yoga mat like the Manduka PRO Yoga Mat keeps you stable and focused during every plank session.
2. Pilates Roll-Ups
Why it works: This controlled movement targets the upper and lower abs while teaching precision and grace.
How to do it: Lie on your back, arms extended overhead. Slowly roll up, one vertebra at a time, until you’re sitting tall. Roll back down just as gracefully.
Pro tip: Exhale as you roll up. This isn’t a race; it’s a performance.
3. Reverse Crunches
Why it works: It’s the secret weapon for lower abs—an area that loves to hold on to everything.
How to do it: Lie flat, legs bent at 90 degrees. Curl your hips off the floor, bringing your knees toward your chest. Lower with control.
Pro tip: Think slow and steady. Elegance, even in workouts, wins the day.
4. Russian Twists
Why it works: This movement shapes your obliques and adds definition to your waistline.
How to do it: Sit with knees bent, lean back slightly, and twist from side to side. Add a weight for an extra challenge.
Pro tip: Keep your movements deliberate and refined. Picture each twist as another step closer to your vision.
Gear Tip: A kettlebell, like the Yes4All Vinyl Coated Kettlebell, is perfect for adding resistance and maximizing results.
5. Bicycle Crunches
Why it works: This dynamic move works the upper and lower abs while carving out those obliques.
How to do it: Lie on your back with hands behind your head. Bring one elbow to the opposite knee as you extend the other leg, alternating sides like you’re pedaling a bike.
Pro tip: Focus on form over speed. Engage your core with each twist for maximum impact.
6. V-Ups
Why it works: This full-range movement targets your entire core, from your lower abs to your upper abs, while building strength and flexibility.
How to do it: Lie flat on your back with arms overhead and legs extended. Simultaneously lift your upper body and legs to meet in the middle, creating a “V” shape. Slowly lower back down with control.
Pro tip: Avoid jerking motions. Control the movement and feel every inch of your abs working.
7. Suitcases
Why it works: This compact movement isolates your core and adds tension to build strength.
How to do it: Sit on the floor with your hands behind you for balance. Keep your knees bent and your feet lifted off the ground. Bring your knees toward your chest as you lean back slightly, then extend your legs back out without touching the floor.
Pro tip: Keep your movements tight and controlled, like packing the perfect suitcase—everything in its place.
Recovery Tip: Post-workout recovery matters just as much as the exercises themselves. A protein powder like Ghost Plant-Based Protein Powder helps repair and fuel your muscles for the next session.
8. Hanging Leg Raises
Why it works: This challenging move isolates your lower abs while also engaging your entire core for stabilization. Plus, it helps improve grip strength—a bonus for anyone looking to elevate their fitness game.
How to do it: Hang from a pull-up bar with your arms fully extended. Keep your legs straight and slowly lift them until they’re parallel to the ground. Lower them back down with control.
Pro tip: Avoid swinging your body; focus on using your core to lift your legs. If this feels too advanced, start with knee raises instead.
Gear Tip: A pull-up bar like the Iron Gym Total Upper Body Workout Bar is perfect for home workouts and versatile enough for multiple exercises.
Bonus Tip: Sweat It Out
Sometimes, adding a little extra effort can make all the difference. I personally use a sweat belt during workouts to enhance core engagement and boost my sweat session. Pairing it with a product like Vasoburn takes it up a notch by stimulating circulation and intensifying the effects.
Pro Tip: Apply a thin layer of Vasoburn to your midsection, strap on a sweat belt like the Sweet Sweat Waist Trimmer, and let the heat do its magic while you work. It’s not just about sweating—it’s about feeling that intentional effort with every move.
The Kitchen: Where the Magic Happens
Here’s the truth every successful woman knows: you can’t outwork a poor diet. Keep it clean, elegant, and nourishing. Think lean proteins, vibrant vegetables, and complex carbs that fuel your ambitions. Stay hydrated—there’s nothing glamorous about being dehydrated—and minimize processed foods.
And yes, treat yourself, but make it intentional. A glass of wine? A small indulgence? You’ve earned it. The goal isn’t deprivation; it’s balance.
Mindset: The Missing Ingredient
Here’s what sets you apart: you don’t just want results—you expect them. Every plank, every twist, every choice in the kitchen is a step toward becoming the woman you admire. Fitness, much like life, is about consistency over perfection. When you show up, you’re reinforcing your commitment to yourself—and that’s a quality everyone will notice.
The Takeaway
A flat stomach isn’t just a goal; it’s a reflection of who you are: disciplined, intentional, and unshakable. The work you put in here translates into every aspect of your life—how you carry yourself, how you approach challenges, and how you inspire those around you.
If you’re ready to take the next step on your fitness journey, check out my 12-Week Transformation Program. It’s designed to help you build strength, confidence, and a body you’ll love—because I want to see you win, and I want you to reach your dream body.
Not quite ready to commit yet? That’s okay—start small, but start today. Download my 1-Page Workout Tracker for free—it’s your first step toward accountability and progress. This simple yet powerful tool will help you stay focused, track your consistency, and celebrate how far you’ve come.
Real change starts with commitment, and this tracker is the perfect way to show up for yourself. Sign up with your email to grab your free tracker and take the first step toward becoming your best self.
Get the FREE Workout Tracker
I’ve put together a collection of my favorite tools for weight loss (cutting) and weight gain (bulking)—including workout trackers, meal prep ideas, and stylish gym wear. These are the exact tools I use to stay focused and become my best, fittest self.
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So, let’s not just work toward a flat stomach. Let’s work toward becoming the kind of woman people look at and say, "She has it all together." Because you do.
Stay Intentional, Stay Magnetic,
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