While some might focus on aesthetics, the big concern with belly fat is your health.
Did you know that the more excess fat there is around your middle, the higher the risk of type 2 diabetes? The risk of cancer and heart disease is also increased.
In this case, exercise is pretty important. Cue fitness editor-at-large Jay Cardiello showing off eight tummy-toning exercises.
SEE ALSO:
Five Facts You Must Understand If You Are Ever Going to Lose Your Belly Fat and Get a Flat Stomach
DIABETES RISK
Did you know that men who measure more than 40 inches around the middle are five times more likely to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes than men with a smaller waist?
Meanwhile, women who measure more than 35 inches are three times more likely to be diagnosed than those who are smaller, according to a report by Public Health England.
OTHER RISKS
Additionally, abdominal fat has been linked to higher risks of cancer and heart disease. Yikes.
Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital, as well as the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute Laboratory for Metabolic and Population Health, noted that abdominal fat is considered an indicator of fat surrounding internal organs.
Basically excess belly fat means bad news.
WORKOUT
Our advice? If you think you might be carrying a little excess baggage in that department then kickstart an exercise plan ASAP.
And don't worry, you won't have to join a gym or anything. If working out in public or paying extortionate gym memberships isn't for you then you can do it on an exercise mat in your living room.
From the good old 'happy go lucky' to our personal favourite, 'the crocodile' (top marks for innovative exercise names), Jay Cardiello's fitness tips will get you well on your way to reducing scary health risks and becoming a fat-busting pro.