Locations:
Search IconSearch

Will Sit-ups Burn Off Your Belly Fat?

The short answer from a medical weight management expert

woman performing sit ups

Q: Will sit ups reduce your abdominal fat?

A: No. Sit ups are great for tightening your core. They strengthen and tone your rectus abdominus, transverse abdominus and oblique abdominal muscles as well as your neck muscles. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends three sets of 8 to 12 repetitions three times per week.

Advertisement

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

To burn belly fat, you need 45 to 60 minutes of high-intensity cardiovascular activity (running, playing soccer or basketball, jumping rope, power-walking, etc.) on most days of the week. You also need to reduce your intake of processed foods, fast foods and alcohol.

But just because sit ups won’t get rid of your belly fat doesn’t mean you should skip them! Sit ups are essential for strengthening your core — something that’s obvious. But your core is responsible for so much more than those classic “six pack” abs many strive for. A strong core can reduce back pain, improve balance and increase your flexibility. Core muscles also support your hips and pelvis. Finally, a strong core will help you build good posture.

— Medical weight management expert Karen Cooper, DO

Advertisement

Learn more about our editorial process.

Related Articles

Partners lying on bed playing with their toddler
November 19, 2024/Men's Health
What’s a Dad Bod? And Is It Healthy?

Weight gain is natural as we age — but it can be cause for concern

Smiling person with double chin
August 15, 2024/Skin Care & Beauty
How Do I Get Rid of My Pesky Double Chin?

Seeing double (chins) when taking selfies? From exercises to surgery, you can reduce or eliminate chin fat, but there’s no overnight solution

female sitting meditating, eyes closed
March 19, 2024/Weight Loss
14 Ways To Lose Belly Fat

Losing belly fat can reduce your risk for chronic health conditions — try focusing on a diet high in lean protein, exercising regularly, reducing stress and getting quality ZZZs

Close-up illustration of adipose tissue
February 22, 2021/Diabetes & Endocrinology
Do You Know The Color of Body Fat?

Discover why one kind of fat can be fatal

Woman stretching before going on a walk with her husband
January 7, 2019/Weight Loss
What’s the Best Way to Lose Body Fat (and Keep It Off)?

It helps to take a long-range view

Person in wheelchair stretching after lifting weights
April 4, 2025/Exercise & Fitness
If You’re Sore After a Workout, Should You Be Concerned?

Low-level, dull soreness that goes away with rest or physical activity is normal — but if it lingers or worsens, see a healthcare provider

Mason jar of pureed vegetables with broccoli, carrots and potatoes around it
March 28, 2025/Weight Loss
Can the Baby Food Diet Help You Lose Weight?

It can, but it isn’t sustainable, lacks nutritional balance and you’ll likely regain weight as soon as you start eating adult foods again

Person wiping brow with a towel after working out in gym
March 27, 2025/Exercise & Fitness
Here’s What Helps Sore Muscles After a Workout

Hydration, nutrition and athletic guidance can help, but so can massage, Epsom salt baths and more

Trending Topics

Person in bed sleeping on their side, covers off
Breathing Problems? Try These Sleep Positions

If you’re feeling short of breath, sleep can be tough — propping yourself up or sleeping on your side may help

A couple looking at skyline, with one person slightly behind the other, head bent down
What Is Anxious Attachment Style — and Do You Have It?

If you fear the unknown or find yourself needing reassurance often, you may identify with this attachment style

Glasses and bottle of yellow-colored prebiotic soda, with mint, lemon and ginger garnish
Are Prebiotic Sodas Good for You?

If you’re looking to boost your gut health, it’s better to get fiber from whole foods

Ad