Sit-ups are a classic exercise that strengthens, firms and tightens stomach muscles. They are great for toning the internal core muscles, but they are not a high calorie-burning exercise, and do not help to reduce stomach fat.

If you're looking to lose belly weight in addition to tightening up your core and abdominal muscles, more vigorous aerobic work is necessary. According to CNN.com, sit-ups are still worthwhile because they work several of the body's 29 core muscles as opposed to simply isolating the upper and lower abdominals. Sit-ups force the midsection to lift the upper body and require constant contraction in the activated muscles for controlled lowering as well.

One exercise that's similar to the sit-up is the crunch. If you're not strong enough to do slow, controlled sit-ups without straining your neck or jerking the movements, a crunch is a viable alternative. Instead of sitting up all the way, simply contract your abs and raise your torso several inches off the ground while keeping your eyes on the ceiling, your chin off your chest and your fingertips behind your ears. Standing movements, such as upright pike crunches and knee crunches, also help flatten the belly but don't require you to recline and offer less chance of back strain.

Source: https://www.livestrong.com/article/396593-will-sit-ups-flatten-my-stomach/

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