Denise Austin’s Calorie-Blasting ‘Pony’ Workout: Fun Moves to Trim Your Waistline

Low-impact side-to-side hops engage your core and boost energy without stressing joints.

By Medha deb
Created on

Denise Austin’s Secret to a Trim Waistline: The ‘Pony’ Calorie-Burning Workout

For over four decades, Denise Austin has inspired millions to embrace fitness routines that are simple, effective, and — most importantly — fun. In a recent social media video, the renowned fitness icon and author highlights a retro-inspired cardio movement: the ‘Pony’ exercise. This aerobic move isn’t just a throwback to classic workout videos; it’s a dynamic, low-impact way to torch calories and sculpt the waistline, suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Why Denise Austin Stands Out in Fitness

Denise Austin’s approach blends enthusiasm with accessibility. She focuses on:

To further enhance your fitness journey, explore our three low-impact moves that effectively target your waistline at any age. These exercises are designed to be simple and fun, making it easy to incorporate them into your routine alongside Denise’s workouts.
  • Making workouts enjoyable so people stick with them long-term
  • Offering easy modifications for all abilities and ages
  • Emphasizing consistency over perfection for sustainable results
  • Promoting confidence and body positivity.

Her latest routine is no exception, showing how big results come from small, consistent efforts. Let’s break down everything you need to know about her calorie-blasting ‘Pony’ move and related waistline-trimming tips.

The ‘Pony’ Move: Step-by-Step Guide

Denise’s signature ‘Pony’ exercise is a playful side-to-side movement that elevates the heart rate without stressing the joints. Here’s how to perform it safely and effectively:

  • Start Position: Stand tall on a mat or flat surface, feet hip-width apart.
  • Movement: Hop your right leg to the right side as you simultaneously lift your left arm overhead. Quickly bring your left foot to meet your right.
  • Reverse the motion: Hop your left leg to the left, lifting your right arm overhead, and follow by bringing your right foot to your left.
  • Repeat these steps in a rhythmic, bouncing fashion, staying light on your feet.
  • Bend slightly at the waist with each bounce to further engage your core and challenge your obliques.
  • Duration: Continue for one minute or as long as you feel comfortable.
To take your workouts to the next level, check out our 8-minute no-equipment head-to-toe toning routine that Denise crafted for maximum efficiency. This workout complements the ‘Pony’ by strengthening your entire body, ensuring that you not only burn calories but also build lean muscle.

Expert Tip from Denise

Denise advises, “Have fun, do it for a minute!” This emphasis on enjoyment helps many people rediscover their love of movement and motivates consistent workouts.

For those seeking accessible routines, discover our collection of Denise Austin’s favorite low-impact exercises for every body. These tailored movements allow you to enjoy a fulfilling workout without the risk of injury, making fitness achievable and enjoyable for all.

Low-Impact Modifications for All Levels

One hallmark of Denise’s routines is the accessibility for those who need lower-impact alternatives. She demonstrates that you don’t have to hop to get results — just step side-to-side and raise your arms, keeping the energy high and stress low on your joints.

  • Step Instead of Hop: Move your right foot out to the side, then bring your left foot to join it. Switch sides, using a gentle step and an arm raise instead of a bounce.
  • Engage Your Core: Keep your knees slightly bent and maintain light tension in your abdominal muscles as you move.
  • Go at Your Own Pace: Whether you bounce or step, focus on form and a steady rhythm. Consistency is more important than speed.
If you're interested in boosting your metabolism, don’t miss our aerobic throwback featuring classic moves to accelerate your metabolism. This workout is tailored to increase calorie burn substantially while keeping your joints safe, just like the ‘Pony’ exercise.

The Science: Why Low-Impact Cardio Works

Low-impact cardio routines like the ‘Pony’ can still raise your heart rate, increase calorie burn, and protect your joints. According to fitness experts and studies, regular moderate-intensity aerobics can:

  • Reduce waist circumference over time
  • Improve cardiovascular health and metabolic rate
  • Deliver mood-boosting endorphins

How the ‘Pony’ Exercise Targets the Waistline

Denise specifically recommends this aerobic move because it’s more than just calorie burning — it’s about sculpting the sides of your core:

For readers over 50 looking to improve strength and endurance, explore our Fit Over 50 program that combines low-impact cardio with strength training for longevity. This program is crafted to keep your workouts both enjoyable and effective, aligning perfectly with Denise’s principles.
  • Each side-to-side bend and twist activates the oblique muscles
  • Arm movements further challenge your balance and abdominal stabilization
  • Continuous movement keeps the entire trunk engaged

To level up the challenge, focus on keeping your hips square while rotating your upper body and arms. This combination of stability and dynamic motion enhances core definition and function.

Fans Love Denise Austin’s Approach

The response to Denise’s recent workout video was overwhelmingly positive. Social media followers praised her enthusiasm and creativity:

  • “Love how you make working out so fun and enjoyable!”
  • “Love this retro aerobics making exercise so much fun, thanks Denise.”
  • Many commented on how these routines are accessible and uplifting, helping fans of all ages get active.
If you’re seeking a full-body workout approach, our Fit-Over-50 full-body toning move is perfect for maximizing your workout efficiency. This exercise regimen allows you to tone every major muscle group while ensuring the workouts remain light-hearted and fun, just like Denise’s other routines.

Shopping for the Right Fitness Footwear

Inspired by Denise’s moves? She recommends investing in quality aerobic shoes to help support your workouts. Here are some of her top picks for fitness sessions, walks, or daily errands:

  • Easy Spirit Denise Austin Mel EMOVE Walking Shoes
  • Easy Spirit Denise Austin Flyght EMOVE Walking Shoes
  • Easy Spirit Denise Austin Chiara Walking Clogs

Look for shoes that offer cushion, flexible soles, and lightness — perfect for side-to-side movements and long walks alike.

More Essential Waistline-Targeting Moves from Denise Austin

While the ‘Pony’ is fun and effective, Denise Austin’s library of quick ab and core exercises can be mixed and matched for even better results. Try incorporating these additional moves at home:

  • Standing Crunch Leg Lifts: Stand tall, then lift one knee toward the chest while bringing the opposite elbow down to meet it. Alternate sides to engage the whole core.
  • Side-to-Side Reach: With feet wide, reach alternating arms overhead side-to-side, feeling a stretch through your waist with each movement.
  • Forward Lunge and Twist: Step forward into a lunge, lower your back knee toward the floor, and rotate your torso toward the front leg. Return to standing and switch sides.

Perform each exercise for 1 minute, focusing on quality form and breathing. Even a short 5–10 minute routine can make a difference over time.

Benefits of Short, Consistent Exercise

According to fitness experts and Denise herself, quick burst workouts like these have specific advantages:

  • Easy to fit into busy days
  • Lower risk of exercise fatigue and micro-injuries
  • Can be repeated throughout the day for faster results

Sample Denise Austin Calorie-Burning Waistline Routine

MoveDurationKey Muscles Engaged
‘Pony’ Side-to-Side1 minuteObliques, hips, arms, calves
Standing Crunch Leg Lifts1 minuteAbdominals, hip flexors, shoulders
Forward Lunge and Twist1 minute (each side)Core, glutes, thighs, back
Side-to-Side Reach1 minuteWaist, shoulders, upper back
Repeat ‘Pony’ or cool down1–2 minutesFull body, core-focused

This routine burns calories, trims the waistline, and keeps your workout interesting. Add more rounds or incorporate light hand weights for even greater calorie burn and strength benefits.

Tips for Making the Most of the ‘Pony’ Workout

  • Dress in comfortable clothing that lets you move freely.
  • Warm up with light marching or joint rotations before starting.
  • Focus on controlled movements — quality over speed.
  • Keep a water bottle handy and hydrate before, during, and after.
  • Play your favorite music to enhance enjoyment and motivation.
  • Invite a friend or family member to join for accountability and fun.

Why Consistency is Denise Austin’s #1 Fitness Rule

Denise frequently highlights that the key to results isn’t intensity, but regularity. As she puts it, “These moves work wonders — if you do them consistently!” Aim for a few minutes each day, and you’ll notice improvements in core tone and stamina.

  • Start with 5–10 minutes, 3–5 times per week
  • Gradually increase intensity or add rounds as you become comfortable
  • Track your progress with a fitness journal or app to stay motivated

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can low-impact ‘Pony’ moves actually help lose belly fat?

A: Yes. While spot reduction isn’t possible, regular low-impact cardio moves like the ‘Pony’ help increase overall calorie burn and improve core muscle tone, which contributes to a flatter, trimmer waistline with consistency.

Q: Are Denise Austin’s routines safe for beginners and older adults?

A: Absolutely. Denise always demonstrates modifications and encourages moving at your own pace, making her workouts accessible for beginners, seniors, or anyone returning to exercise.

Q: How long until I see results in my waistline?

A: Many people notice increased energy and improved muscle tone within a few weeks. Visible waistline changes depend on overall activity, nutrition, and genetics, but consistency is key for success.

Q: What should I wear for maximum comfort?

A: Supportive athletic shoes (like those Denise recommends), breathable workout clothes, and an exercise mat if you’re indoors will help keep you comfortable and safe.

Q: Can I combine these moves with other workouts?

A: Yes. These routines pair perfectly with strength training, walking, or yoga sessions to round out your weekly activity.

Summary: Make Fitness Fun and Effective

Denise Austin’s ‘Pony’ workout and aerobic ab routines offer a refreshing, approachable way to torch calories, tighten your waistline, and experience the joy of physical activity. With modifications for every fitness level, her tips ensure you can stay active, healthy, and confident — at any age.

Looking for more inspiration? Follow Denise Austin online for weekly moves, motivational videos, and practical health tips that help you live your best life, one fun workout at a time.

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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