Belly fat, especially around the lower abdomen, often results in a soft and untoned look. Many turn to ab workouts like crunches, hoping to strengthen their core. However, crunches aren’t always the best way to burn belly fat effectively. In fact, they can strain your neck and back without delivering the desired results.
Enter the ballet leg lift. Fitness coach Sara Capelli, an expert in cardio ballet inspired by classical dance, suggests this technique as a superior alternative. It focuses on strengthening the abs while avoiding unnecessary back or neck pain. “I want women to know that this exercise is 1000 times more effective for achieving a flat stomach than standard crunches,” she shares. Plus, it strengthens the pelvic floor.
Belly Fat: The Ballet Leg Lift for Fast Results
Coach Capelli highlights the ballet leg lift as key for a flat stomach. This move activates deep abdominal muscles and slims the waist without stressing the back. It’s performed on the floor, sitting on your tailbone with forearms for support. The exercise combines breathing with core engagement. Inhale as you lift one leg at a time, knees bent at 90 degrees, and point your feet for control. Then, exhale as you lower your toes, tightening your pelvic floor and transverse abdominis—“as if you’re zipping up your lower belly,” Capelli explains.
By pairing breath-focused movement with ballet-style leg raises, you activate the innermost abdominal muscles without relying on your neck or shoulders. “This technique sculpts the core and helps achieve a toned, flat stomach,” says Capelli.
How Many Ballet Leg Lifts for Rapid Belly Fat Loss
For visible improvement, Capelli recommends doing “10 full movements”—one rep with each leg completing a cycle. Aim for 3 to 4 sets of these 10 movements to feel the burn. Consistency is key, so practice regularly alongside a balanced diet low in fat and sugar to transform your stomach effectively.
This article first appeared on aufemini.com – Author: Elodie Legall
