When summer is around the corner, many of us scramble to flatten our stomachs. Crash diets, endless crunches, brutal HIIT classes — and yet the mirror doesn’t always reward the effort. But what if the problem isn’t how hard you work, but what type of exercise you’re doing? A surprisingly simple Japanese technique is said to melt belly fat in just five minutes a day — no gym required.
The towel method: simple but powerful
This routine, developed by Dr Tokichi Fukutsudzi, blends yoga-inspired posture work with gentle core strengthening. The idea is straightforward: by lying on the floor with a rolled towel positioned under your lower back, you stretch, align and activate your abdominal muscles. Done daily for only five minutes, it is said to help shed up to five kilos in a month. It may sound too good to be true, but thousands of people in Japan swear by it.
Why this exercise works
The beauty of the towel method lies in its multiple benefits, which go beyond slimming your waistline:
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It improves spinal alignment, helping you stand taller and straighter.
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It corrects pelvic posture, tackling those subtle imbalances that cause slouching.
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It stretches the intercostal ligaments, making your torso more mobile and breathing easier.
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It strengthens deep abdominal muscles, targeting the dreaded belly fat area.
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It can ease lower back pain by releasing tension and correcting posture.
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It even supports digestion, thanks to a better overall body position.
Of course, while this method can be effective, experts remind us that no exercise alone burns fat without a calorie deficit. A balanced diet and some regular activity remain essential.
How to practise the towel method
You don’t need any equipment beyond a bath towel and a bit of floor space. Here’s how to do it:
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Roll up a towel and place it under your lower back while lying flat on the floor.
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Stretch your legs straight, keeping your feet shoulder-width apart and your big toes lightly touching.
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Raise your arms above your head, allowing your little fingers to meet.
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Stay still in this position for five minutes, focusing on steady breathing.
The first time you try it, five minutes may feel surprisingly long, so you can build up gradually.
A simple step towards big results
On its own, the towel method won’t replace a brisk walk or a session at the gym, but as a daily habit it’s an easy way to strengthen the core, improve posture and reduce belly fat. The best part? It requires no sweat, no special gear, and no more than the length of a song on the radio.
If you’re looking for a small daily commitment with the potential for visible results, this Japanese technique is well worth adding to your routine. After all, five minutes is easier to find than five hours at the gym.
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Theo is a dynamic fitness coach who brings energy, realism, and flavor to healthy living. His content is about strong bodies, positive minds, and meals that fuel both.