We definitely all want a flatter tummy from those who wear size 2 to those who wear a size 20. Will doing Pilates exercises give us the flatter tummy we desire and also a stronger one? It seems to be more effective than the ever popular cardio exercise, jogging or running.

Then why are some of us so negative about Pilates?

Understand that you may not see anything for a little while but if you’re doing the exercise with correct form and doing them consistently and often you will start to notice. You will finally start to see results of a flatter tummy in 1-3 months but is also dependent on a healthy whole foods diet and on the intensity and frequency of your workouts.

Personal trainer NYC and Pilates instructor says that Pilates strengthens the back and helps create beautiful a posture and will support creating a flatter tummy if one also implements a whole foods diet and frequent intense workouts!

These stomach exercises for a flatter tummy are all about developing core body strength. This is crucial in giving your entire body a solid foundation that it needs. Without the strength of your core, your midsection for proper stabilization one cannot have arm and leg power.

There are hundreds of Pilates exercise that you can do but here are two:

1. The Hundred – Place you body in a standard crunch position, but make sure instead of your hands behind your head your arms need to be at your sides. Do not curve your back.

You will want to pull your knees to your stomach and make sure your abs are engaged. From there, lift your neck and bring your head down so that you are viewing your stomach. Make sure your neck is relaxed though. It is called the “floating head”.

Now raise your arms slightly but be careful not to push farther so you are straining. Most who begin this won’t be able to go higher than 3 inches but that is perfectly fine. Now start raising the arms and then lowering the arms for about 5-10 times. When you get stronger you will start to observe that you will be able to handle more repetitions.

2. Crisscross – Again, assume the classic crunch position. Then slowly raise your head and shoulders above the mat. Now lift the knees toward your midsection and keep the hands in the back of the head to help with stabilizing your body.

Gradually turn to the right side, pushing your left elbow in close enough to touch your opposite knee. At the same time straighten your left leg. Go back to the original position and repeat on the other side.

Why are these stomach exercises so effective?

They focus on the deeper ab muscles which is crucial for stability.

So for a flatter tummy incorporating Pilates stomach exercises along with a more rigorous workout a few days a week and eating right will melt the belly fat. To get results make sure that you be consistent and always have fun.