These bench moves can help you safely and effectively get rid of pesky belly fat as you age.
Many unwanted changes occur as you age, and one of them is belly fat. It happens for many reasons, including hormonal changes, a slower metabolism, loss of lean muscle mass, and less movement. The good news is that there are ways to combat it. We spoke to an expert who shares four bench exercises that can help you lose belly fat faster than any exercise after 60. tighten and tone your absbut they don’t get enough calories get rid of unwanted belly fat.
“Belly time after age 60 has very little to do with activity level—it’s to do with structural and physiological changes,” he explains. Karen Ann Canham, CEO and the founder Karen Ann HealthBoard-certified health coach and nervous system specialist with nearly two decades of experience in wellness and corporate leadership. “First, sarcopenia reduces muscle tone, especially in the deep core and lower body. With less muscle support, the belly can easily protrude. Second, hormonal changes, including lower estrogen and testosterone, promote fat storage in the abdominal area. Third, loss of skin elasticity makes the area softer and less supportive.”
In addition, changes in your posture, such as forward pelvic tilt and head position, can worsen the appearance of a tummy tuck, even in those who exercise regularly.
To improve this area of the body, it is important to strengthen the core and work on your coordination. Increasing physical activity doesn’t just do the trick.
“For many adults over 60, focusing on deep core activation, posture, and full-body strength is more effective and sustainable (than dancing),” says Canham.
Below, Canham breaks down four bench exercises that can burn fat after age 60.
“These exercises strengthen the deep core and support muscle groups in a stable, accessible position and help improve posture, muscle tone, and overall body composition—all of which help reduce belly fat over time,” Canham said.
Seated knee lifts
- Begin by sitting on the edge of a sturdy chair with your feet flat on the floor.
- Place your hands at your sides for support.
- Lift one knee toward your chest, then lower it, tightening your abs and keeping your spine tall.
- Switch sides.
- Perform 2 to 3 sets of 10 to 12 repetitions per leg.
Seated marches with original reinforcement
- Start by sitting with a long spine.
- Gently press your hands to the sides of the chair.
- Take a deep breath, engage your core, and lift one leg at a time into a slow march.
- Keep your ribs to the side as your legs move.
- Do 2 to 3 sets of 20 alternating marches.
Seated body rotations
- Begin sitting in a sturdy chair with your feet flat on the floor. Activate your core.
- Place your hands behind your head or cross them in front of your chest.
- Slowly twist your torso to the left, keeping your hips forward.
- Return to the center and then twist to the right.
- Perform 2 to 3 sets of 12 to 15 repetitions on each side.
Seated leg extension
- Sit lightly with your hands on the chair.
- Extend your legs straight out.
- Hold for a moment, then lower.
- Perform 2 to 3 sets of 10 to 12 repetitions per leg.
Alexa Mellardo
Alexa is a freelance writer, editor and content strategist in Greenwich, CT. She has over 11 years of experience in health, fitness, nutrition, travel, lifestyle and home. Read more about Alexa




