The short answer from a medical weight management expert
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.
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
Learn more about our editorial process.
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
Getting rid of excess abdominal fat will take more than just cutting back on cold ones
Discover why one kind of fat can be fatal
It helps to take a long-range view
This fitness plan can work as a realistic, holistic approach to a healthier you
It depends on factors like your age, activity level and if you want to maintain, lose or gain weight
The science on ACV isn’t very promising for weight loss or appetite suppression
Genetics, metabolism and hormonal fluctuations can all make weight loss more difficult
Your metabolism may torch 1,300 to 2,000 calories daily with no activity
A gentle touch in all the right places may help drain your sinuses
