Unique Exercises to Flatten Your Stomach While You Drive

The key to achieving a flat stomach is through abdominal and core exercises. Integration of these exercises into your daily routine may seem like an arduous task. However, many exercises to flatten your stomach can be performed without spending hours at the gym or exercising at home. Whether driving through the deserts, mountains, or somewhere in between, car rides can easily be turned into fitness opportunities with the help of unique exercises.

Seated Cat

This core exercise recommended by the American Council on Exercise is modified from its original all fours position in order to be performed in the car. Sit in your standard driving position, both arms extended to the wheel, with your wrists level at your shoulders. Tighten your core and abdominal muscles by imagining a corset is around your waist. Simultaneously, push your shoulder blades forward as if you are trying to make a letter "C" with the upper part of your body. Slowly exhale, but maintain the tight muscles as you push your back into the seat. Hold this position for 10 to 15 seconds. Release and resume the start position. Perform six to 10 repetitions for two to three sets, resting 45 to 60 seconds between each set.

Sit and Reach

This exercise is a modified version of the Mayo Clinic's squat and reach. Extend your arms and firmly place your hands on the wheel in the 10 O'clock and 2 O'clock positions. Tighten your abdominal muscles by bringing your belly button into your spine. Gently rotate you torso left and right alternatively while keeping your shoulders and head straight. The only part of your body that should be moving is your torso. Work lower parts of your core by placing your hands at the 9 O'clock and 3 O'clock or the 8 O'clock and 4 O'clock positions. Perform six to 10 repetitions for two to three sets, resting 30 seconds in between each set.

Supine-Pelvic Tilts

This supine-pelvic tilt has been modified from a floor exercise into a seated exercise, recommended by the American Council on Exercise. Start seated in an upright position with a neutral spine. Tighten your abdominal muscles and push your lower back into the seat while gently exhaling. Maintain this position for two to three seconds. Next, inhale slowly, simultaneously pushing your pelvis forward to create an arch in your lower back. Hips and tailbone should remain against the seat. Hold for two to three seconds. Resume the start position. Perform this exercise for six to 12 repetitions for two to three sets, resting 45 to 60 seconds between each set.

Contraindications

Always exercise caution while driving. Be mindful of your movements and maintain focus on the road. Talk with your doctor prior to beginning abdominal and core exercises if you have back problems, osteoporosis, or other health concerns.