Want a slim and sexy midsection without having to pay out for expensive gym memberships, or invest in your very own home-based equipment? You probably know that a waist trimmer belt can do wonders for defining your figure and trimming inches from your abdomen, but it can only be effective if it's used alongside exercises designed to work your core. Fortunately, this doesn't mean you need to seek out a personal trainer - bodyweight core exercises can be the most effective way to shape your physique, without anything but your own weight.

Try a few of these exercises to get started, and soon you'll be developing your very own waistline workout.

1.    L-Seat

This move may not be as relaxing as it sounds, but it's one of the best bodyweight core exercises for shaping an hourglass figure. Sit with your feet flexed and your legs extended as far out as possible, then place your hands carefully on the floor. Push your weight upwards to lift your hips away from the ground, and hold the position for as long as possible.

2.    Rotational Push-up

If the old-fashioned push-up isn't cutting it for you anymore, try this variation for enhanced bodyweight core exercises. After returning to your starting push-up position, curve your body to the right and extend your right hand over your head. You should be forming a "T" shape with your torso and arms, before you return to the starting position and repeat from the other side.

3.    Flutter Kick

Start by lying on your back with your palms facing the floor and your legs stretched out. Lift your heels around half a foot away from the floor, and make a number of small movements up and down with your legs, engaging the core at the same time. Try to keep kicking for as long as possible to work out your middle.

4.    Dynamic Prone Plank

Start off in a standard plank position and raise your hips as high away from the ground as you can, before lowering them back down. Continue with this movement for as long as you can before your muscles turn to jelly for one of the most engaging bodyweight core exercises around.

5.    Bicycle

Lie on the ground with your hands behind your head and your knees bent. Bring your knees up towards your chest, and stretch your left elbow down towards the right knee as your left leg straightens. Continue alternating each side, as though you're pedaling.

6.    Crunch

The crunch is one of the most popular bodyweight core exercises today, just remember that form is crucial if you want great results. Lie on your back with your feet flat against the floor and your knees bent. Link your hands beneath your head, and angle your chin downwards slightly, peeling your shoulders and head away from the mat with the strength in your core. Hold the position, then lower slowly.

7.    Shoulder Bridge

Finally, lie on your back with your feet about a hip-width apart, and your arms by your sides. With your palms against the floor, lift your spine and hips away from the floor so that only your shoulders, arms, feet, and head touch the ground. You can lift one leg away from the ground to make the movement even more challenging, just be sure to keep your balance steady.