How to Do Sit Ups to Boost the Metabolism

Increase the weight you're lifting. Forget this thousand situps a day nonsense, or the idea that performing high reps will torch fat, you'll get much more of a metabolism boost by training heavy. High-intensity resistance training has a far greater effect on your metabolism than cardio or light weightlifting and burns more calories after you've finished your session, according to Len Kravitz of the University of New Mexico. Grab a 10-pound weight plate, hold it above your head and start doing sit-ups. Once you can manage three sets of 15 reps, it's time to go heavier.

Pair situps with another exercise. This is known as supersetting and is the ultimate metabolism-boosting workout, writes Natalie Gingerich in Fitness magazine. Rather than resting after each set, perform another exercise straight after you've finished your last situp. Pairing opposite muscles works well, so perform a lower-back exercise between situp sets. Go for back extensions on a machine, the floor or on a stability ball.

Perform your situps as part of a circuit. Metabolic circuits are every girl's dream -- they build strength, burn fat and raise your metabolism through the roof. Pick five or six exercises that target your whole body and perform a maximum number of reps in 20 seconds on each, advises trainer Jen Comas. Do all of the exercises, then rest for a minute or two and go again. A sample circuit could include situps, jump lunges, dumbbell squats, knee pushups and cable rows.