Let’s be honest: the lower belly is like that one kitchen junk drawer—no matter how much you tidy, stuff always seems to end up there. If you’ve tried everything for a flatter lower stomach and still feel like you’re smuggling a tiny pillow, you’re not alone. The good news? There’s a gentle, no-crunch move making waves (or, rather, helping you lose them) on social media—and it could be your gamechanger!
Why Lower Belly Fat is Stubborn
The lower belly is infamous for fat accumulation. Why there, Mother Nature? Several culprits plot against us: diet, hydration, exercise (or absence thereof), genetics, and the natural aging process. As we age, metabolism slows down and, surprise, abdominal fat shows up with even more enthusiasm. But before you curse your genes or check if you’re drinking enough water (pro tip: you probably aren’t), know there are solutions.
- Hydrate—drink plenty of water
- Eat a balanced diet
- And yes, keep moving—exercise remains a faithful friend
Of course, when it comes to chiseling the midsection, strengthening those abs is a power move—and there’s a new trick in town.
The Move That’s Taking Over TikTok (No Crunches Needed)
Raise your hand if crunches make you feel like you’re starring in your own medieval torture scene. Good news: according to fitness coach Anouk Hamel (Body by Anouk, a Gen Z favorite on TikTok), you can skip crunches altogether. She swears by an hypopressive core exercise targeting deep abs and the lower belly—no pain, no neck strain, just results.
Here’s how to do Anouk’s go-to move:
- Lying on your back, raise your legs into a reverse table-top position.
- Reach your arms up toward the ceiling (vertical).
- Slowly lower one leg and the opposite arm toward the floor until they touch down.
- Return to starting position, then switch to the other side.
According to the coach, four sets of twenty reps is the sweet spot. Practice regularly, and you’ll be well on your way to a flatter belly—just remember it’s quality, not just quantity, that counts!
The essential technique: draw your navel in and breathe through your ribs each time. It’s all about engaging the right muscles, not rushing the movement.
What’s Special About Hypopressive Abs?
Don’t let the fancy name put you off—these ab exercises are nothing to neglect. Why? They target the transverse abdominis, the deepest layer of your abdominal muscles. The movement focuses on breathing, core contraction, and activation of the pelvic floor. It’s all done gently, so unlike crunches, you can wave goodbye to back or neck discomfort (and the existential dread each time someone suggests, “let’s do crunches!”).
- Easier on your body than traditional crunches
- Excellent for core activation and lower belly toning
If you’re dreaming of defined, six-pack abs (the so-called “chocolate bar” effect), hypopressive exercises aren’t the golden ticket. Instead, these moves are tailored for:
- Achieving a flatter stomach, especially the lower region
- Supporting a straighter back
- Reducing bloating and even helping with constipation
So, it’s less about showing off at the beach and more about comfort, health, and supporting your posture—hard to argue with that!
The Takeaway: Gentle Consistency for Real Change
The lower belly might be stubborn, but you don’t have to fight fire with fire—or crunches with endless pain. A gentle, consistent routine with movements like Anouk Hamel’s favorite hypopressive exercise can help flatten the area, all while being kind to your body. Remember to combine regular movement with hydration and a balanced diet for best results.
Ready to trade your crunches for something smoother? Roll out your mat, take a deep (rib-expanding!) breath, and get moving. The journey to a flatter lower belly just got a lot gentler—and less crunchy!
John is a curious mind who loves to write about diverse topics. Passionate about sharing his thoughts and perspectives, he enjoys sparking conversations and encouraging discovery. For him, every subject is an invitation to discuss and learn.
