Best exercises: 13 indoor workout routines to reduce belly fat at home during winter

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) involves short bursts of intense activity followed by brief rest periods. Engaging multiple muscle groups simultaneously not only boosts metabolism but also torches calories, aiding in belly fat reduction (Image: Canva)

Finding time to hit the gym every day can be a challenge, especially when you are already juggling between hectic work schedule and a busy social life. Add to it extreme cold temperatures of the winter season that make it almost impossible to step out! Yet, the desire to shed those extra inches around the waist persists. Fear not, as your quest for a trimmer waistline can be achieved within the comfort of your home.

Discover a range of indoor exercises designed to target and melt away stubborn belly fat. Forget fancy equipment required—you just need determination and a little space to perform these exercises at home:

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

Kickstart your belly fat-burning journey with High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). This workout involves short bursts of intense activity followed by brief rest periods. Engaging multiple muscle groups simultaneously not only boosts metabolism but also torches calories, aiding in belly fat reduction.

1. Burpees:

• Start standing, then squat down and kick your feet back into a plank position.
• Perform a push-up, jump your feet back towards your hands, and explosively jump up.
• Repeat for 3 sets of 15 reps.

• Stand with your feet together, then jump, spreading your arms and legs.
• Return to the starting position and repeat for 5 minutes.

• Begin in a plank position.
• Drive your knees towards your chest in a running motion.
• Continue for 1 minute.

Isolating and sculpting the core is essential for banishing belly fat. Incorporate these exercises to engage your abdominal muscles effectively.

4. Standard plank:

• Start in a push-up position.
• Lower onto your forearms, maintaining a straight line from head to heels.
• Hold for 30-60 seconds.

• Lie on your side, propped up on one elbow.
• Lift hips until your body forms a straight line.
• Hold for 30 seconds on each side.

• Begin in a plank position.
• Bring your right knee towards your right elbow.
• Return to plank position and repeat on the left side.
• Continue alternating for 1 minute.

Cardiovascular exercises are excellent for burning overall body fat, including that pesky belly fat. Opt for activities like running in place, skipping rope, or even dance workouts.

7. Jump rope:

• Hold the rope while keeping your extended hands at hip level.
• Rotate your wrists to swing the rope and jump.
• Jump with both feet at the same time, one foot at a time, alternating between feet, etc. for 5 minutes.
• Increase intensity with variations like double-unders.

• Lift your knees high while jogging in place for 10 minutes.
• Intersperse with short bursts of sprinting.

Building muscle mass boosts metabolism, aiding in the reduction of belly fat. Focus on compound exercises that work multiple muscle groups simultaneously.

9. Squats:

• Stand with feet shoulder-width apart.
• Lower into a squat position, keeping your back straight.
• Repeat for three sets of 15 reps.

• Step forward with one foot, lowering your body until both knees are bent at a 90-degree angle.
• Alternate legs for three sets of 12 reps per leg.

• Sit on the floor, leaning back slightly.
• Twist your torso to touch the floor beside you.
• Repeat for 3 sets of 20 twists.

Embrace the holistic benefits of yoga and Pilates. These low-impact exercises not only tone your core but also promote flexibility and mindfulness.

12. Boat pose (Navasana):

• Sit on the floor, lean back, and lift your legs, forming a V shape.
• Hold for 30 seconds, gradually increasing the duration.

• Start on your hands and knees.
• Inhale, arching your back (cow position), and exhale, rounding your spine (cat position).
• Repeat for 10 cycles.