Momodu Mansaray – Getty Images
-
Denise Austin shared two exercises aimed at the “menopausal belly.”
-
The exercises, performed in a standing position, are ideal for any time and place.
-
Austin includes a low-impact option and a variation using light weights.
As women navigate through menopause, they encounter a variety of symptoms including hot flashes, brain fog, and even changes in facial hair. To ease these transitions, fitness expert Denise Austin frequently shares practical advice and routine recommendations to help women thrive during this life stage. Recently, Austin focused on core exercises designed to combat weight gain often associated with menopause, specifically targeting what’s commonly known as the “menopausal belly.”
“Let’s work our ABS today!! Two quick moves that you can do anytime, anywhere to whittle down that menopause belly!! These are both standing ab moves, so you don’t even have to get down on the floor!” Austin posted on Instagram, accompanied by her signature hashtags #FitOver50 and #WorkoutMotivation. Below, we outline the specifics of these core-strengthening exercises, ensuring you can incorporate them into your daily routine.
Low-Impact High Knees
Austin’s first move is a low-impact exercise that focuses on the waistline. To perform this, start in a standing position with your feet shoulder-width apart and hands on your hips. Alternate bringing one knee up to waist level and repeat on the opposite leg. For increased intensity, raise your arms to shoulder height and touch the opposite elbow to the corresponding knee on each repetition. Austin emphasizes, “Add your upper body to make it harder—the more muscles you use, the more calories you burn!” Perform this move for about one minute.
Standing Cross-Body Crunch
The second exercise is a standing variation of a crunch. Begin with your feet slightly wider than hip-width apart and your arms raised above your head. Bring your left knee to meet your right elbow while lowering your arms to a crunching position. Place your left leg down and repeat with the right leg to the left elbow. To enhance this move, hold light weights in each hand. Repeat the sequence swiftly for about one minute.
Wood Chop
Austin’s wood chop exercise is a full-body move that targets the core. Stand with your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, then bend your right knee towards the floor and place your hands in front of you. Extend your arms towards your front foot while maintaining a 90-degree angle in both knees. Rise to your standing position and extend your arms overhead on the opposite side of your body. Engage your abs as you perform this move 30 times on each side. Austin advises, “Tighten up those abs. Push down and reach up!”
Kickboxing Punches
In another video, Austin demonstrates an engaging kickboxing routine aimed at the core. To perform this, stand with feet shoulder-width apart and fists below your chin. Keep your arms slightly pivoting on your toes while throwing punch-like movements towards your imaginary opponent. Austin encourages viewers to concentrate on squeezing their abs with each punch for one minute. She notes, “You’re gonna strike it to the side and really tighten up those abs” to emphasize the abdominal engagement.
Denise Austin consistently delivers actionable and easy-to-follow exercise tips for women of all fitness levels. These specific exercises, shown in her video, are perfect for busy women who want to stay active without the necessity of complex equipment. Whether you’re just starting your fitness journey or looking to advance your current regimen, these moves are versatile and highly beneficial.
Like many fitness gurus, Austin uses her platform to inspire positivity and celebrate all ages. She believes that staying physically active and maintaining core strength can significantly improve quality of life, especially during challenging times like menopause. Incorporating these exercises into your routine might also help alleviate some of the common symptoms associated with menopause by boosting metabolism and strengthening the core muscles.
You Might Also Like
We encourage you to join the conversation below. Share your thoughts about Denise Austin’s exercises or any other fitness routines you find effective. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated with similar motivating content. Spread the word on social media and help us empower more women to lead healthy, active lives.
