Doing exercises from the comfort of your bed is a wise choice as you age.<\/p>\n
One form of low-impact exercise that\u2019s effective yet gentle on the joints includes bed exercises. You can perform them while sitting or lying down, and they\u2019re quite effective for boosting mobility<\/a>, strength, flexibility, and circulation. Another extraordinary benefit of this modality? Trimming down on pesky belly fat<\/a>. The visceral fat<\/a> that accumulates in this area of the body is challenging to lose, but with the right routine on deck, it can be done.<\/p>\n As you age, it\u2019s always appealing to have a plan that you can do conveniently in the comfort of your own home. We spoke with Felicia Hernandez, NASM-certified personal trainer and community engagement lead at Eden Health Club<\/a>, who shares four bed exercises<\/a> that melt belly fat better than morning gym workouts<\/a> after 60.<\/p>\n \u201cAfter 60, a morning gym session can be more harmful than good. I have seen people after 60 struggle with joints first thing in the morning \u2026 Getting up and down from the floor is a barrier to regular exercise. The stiffness, the reduced balance, and the previous injuries make the floor work impractical for the seniors,\u201d Hernandez tells us. \u201cThat is why bed exercises work better. Four-bed exercises help a post-60 body, not a 20-year body.\u201d<\/p>\n \tSupported Leg Lifts<\/p>\n \u201cThis method is the gold standard for lower-belly activation after 60. When you are lying down with support, the transverse abdominis engages while the hip flexors stay relaxed. On the floor, most people arch their backs. Pull with the hip flexors. That makes the belly pooch worse,\u201d Hernandez tells us. \u201cOn the bed, the soft surface supports the back [and] forces the deep core to work against gravity. I have tried this [and have seen] lower-belly activation improve.\u201d<\/p>\n Lie flat on your back, arms at your sides and legs straight.
\nLift both legs off the floor, keeping them extended.
\nLower without allowing your legs to touch the ground.
\nPerform 3 sets of 8 to 12 reps on each side.<\/p>\n