There are lots of cardiovascular exercises that engage your core muscles and obliterate fat. Combining cardio and abdominal workouts are a great way to get toned, strong abs. Try combining these exercises in a circuit-style routine for 15 minutes to melt that muffin top:
Burpees
These engage your abs and burn a high number of calories. Start off in a squat position with your hands in front of you. Then quickly put your hands on the floor and kick your legs back so you are then in a plank position. If you can, do a push-up. Then bring your knees back to your chest into a squat position again. Jump up as high as possible and go back into a squat to repeat the process. Do 3 sets of 12 reps with a one minute break in between sets, or do as many reps as you can in 30 seconds.
High knees
These engage all your abdominal muscles. Start by standing with your knees shoulder-width apart and then jog on the spot. Then start jogging faster and lifting your knees higher, so they reach above your waist. Do three sets of these for 30 seconds, and take a one minute break in between sets. Then you can try and work your way up.
Mountain climbers
These are to be done rapidly and are more demanding physically. Start in a push-up position with your body in a straight line, and your hands must be below your shoulders and shoulder-width apart. Bring your right knee towards your right wrist and put it back in its extended position. Quickly do the same with your left leg, and keep your hips and shoulders level. Do as many as you can in three sets of 30 seconds, and try to work your way up to one minute before taking a break.
Crossovers
Stand next to the left side of a hoop on the ground. Put your left foot in the hoop, whilst crossing it over your right foot, and bring your right foot to the outside of the hoop. Put your left foot to meet your right foot on the outside of the hoop. Repeat this exercise on your left side. Keep alternating quickly for 30 seconds.
Skipping with a rope
This exercise targets not just your core but lots of other muscle groups. Start with a 15 minute routine; do regular jumps for five minutes, jump for one minute on your left leg and then do the same on your right, alternate between both legs for three minutes and end with five minutes of regular jumps. Once your endurance increases, work your way up to a 30 minute routine. Jumping with a rope will help you keep your breathing steady and your core strong.
