Fit & Proper: Ten workouts to help lose belly fat

Skipping
Remember all those games you played with the skipping rope as a kid? Go back to basics for that lean body.

Lunges
Whether you are trying to shape your lower body, increase muscle tissue, burn belly fat or make your hips more flexible, the lunge can help you achieve your goal.

Jumping and toe touching
Toe-touching can be done while standing up or lying down on the floor, and it works multiple muscle groups in addition to offering flexibility and stretching benefits.

Swiss ball crunches
Because of its ability to target the entire core, the Swiss-ball crunch should be a staple in your workout. When performed properly, it also helps stabilise the hips and lower back.

Swiss-ball twist
Use these to give your waist a healthy shape and fight off "love handles".

Mountain climb
A mountain climb is an exercise that challenges your balance, agility and coordination. It helps boost muscular and cardiovascular fitness by increasing blood circulation.

Planks/side planks
The plank is one of the best exercises for a flat, toned stomach because it works all the muscles in your core, including the internal and external oblique, hips and back.

Spot jogging
Just like brisk walking, spot jogging benefits rank high in terms of watching your weight. It allows you to start the workout at your own pace.

Squats with kettle bells
This is one exercise that should be a part of everyone's routine, as it is relatively simple to perform, needs no equipment and can be done just about anywhere.

Isometric hold
Isometric exercise involves tensing muscles, either against other muscles or immovable objects, while the length of the muscle remains the same. For example, push hard against a wall for 10 seconds.

Ashish Gupta
Fitness expert and director, Gold's Gym, Gurgaon