Multiple exercise types effectively reduce belly fat when combined regularly

Health researchers have reviewed the evidence on exercise and belly fat, and their findings challenge some common assumptions. Doing sit-ups alone, for example, will not reduce stomach fat, because the body cannot lose fat from one specific area on demand.

Both cardio exercise and strength training help reduce belly fat, but they work differently. Cardio burns more calories during the workout itself, while strength training builds muscle, which raises the number of calories the body burns even at rest. High-intensity interval training has produced stronger fat loss results than moderate exercise in clinical studies.

Experts recommend combining both types rather than choosing one. Tai chi, Pilates, and yoga have also shown measurable reductions in waist size in research settings.