There's something inherently attractive about a slim waist - which is why men and women alike strive to tone up their mid-section through a combination of exercise, diet, and careful lifestyle changes. However, a trim tummy is great for more than just catching the right attention during swimsuit season - it also helps to prevent problems in your hips, back, and knees.

The stronger your core is, thanks to moves for a toned waist, the more you can reduce back pain and enjoy better movement quality throughout the day. What's more, let's not forget that ridding yourself of unwanted belly fat can also be a great way to reduce your risk of heart disease. The following moves for a toned waist, combined with your trusty waist trimmer belt, should help you get the shape you've always wanted - and all of the health benefits that come along with it.

Knee to Elbow Plank

When it comes to moves for a toned waist, planks are a tried and tested staple for strengthening your core. Combine your planking efforts with this fun variation, and you'll also work your obliques at the same time!

Start in a forearm plank position that lines up your shoulders and elbows, then lift your left leg away from the ground, pushing your knee up towards your arm, and keeping your leg parallel with the floor. Return to the starting position and do ten repetitions per leg.

Physio Ball Roll Outs

You'll need to invest in a yoga or physio ball for this particular exercise - but the chances are you'll get a lot of use out of it as you continue in your core-building moves for a toned waist. Start off in the plank position with your elbows on the physio ball, then slowly roll the ball out in front of you about six to twelve inches, before rolling it back to the starting position. This workout should test your balance, so don't be ashamed if you struggle at first.

Windshield Wipers

Another interesting move that works out your obliques, this workout really helps you to reclaim your waist. Lay on your back with your legs together and lifted up, so that the soles of your feet are facing the ceiling. Slowly lower both legs from left to right, as though they're a pair of windshield wipers.

During the workout, try to keep your legs as straight as possible, and your back flat on the floor, so that your core is responsible for the majority of the work.

Teapot

Finally, head back to your childhood and hum "I'm a little teapot" as you perform this fantastic slimming move. Grab a dumbbell and stand with your feet about shoulder-width apart. Raise your right arm straight up over your head (the one not holding the dumbbell), and reach your left towards your ankle, with the dumbbell gripped tightly. Pause for a moment, before slowly returning to standing position.

Remember to take it slowly as you bend from the waist, as you don't want to pull a muscle or end up ruining your workout with unwanted discomfort.