Love handles, those double pockets of fat around the waist, can become a frustrating challenge for many. While spot reduction is a myth, targeted exercise can help tighten and tone the surrounding muscles, contributing to a more sculpted waistline. Let’s delve into five fantastic exercises that can make up an effective love handle workout to say goodbye to those pesky handles and hello to a more confident you. Do complement the love handle workout with a balanced diet and holistic fitness approach for the best results.
Best exercises for love handles
- Russian twist
- Bicycle crunches
- Side planks
- Standing side crunches
- Woodchoppers
Incorporate these five exercises for love handles into your fitness routine to achieve a more toned and sculpted waistline.
1. Russian twist
Russian twists are dynamic and engaging exercises targeting the oblique muscles and trim love handles. To perform this exercise, sit on the floor with your feet flat and your knees bent. Lift your feet off the ground while you lean back slightly, maintaining a straight back. Holding a weight or a suitable object, twist your torso to the right and the left. The twisting motion engages the obliques, promoting toning and definition, while the weight adds resistance for a more effective workout.
2. Bicycle crunches
Bicycle crunches are a classic and effective movement that targets upper and lower abdominal muscles, making them an essential part of any love handle workout. Begin by lying on your back with your hands behind your head and your legs lifted off the ground. As you bring your right elbow to your left knee, simultaneously extend your right leg. Alternate sides, creating a pedalling motion while engaging your core and obliques. This exercise not only works wonders for love handles but also contributes to strengthening the entire core.
3. Side planks
Side planks are a powerful isometric exercise that zeroes in on the oblique muscles, aiding in reducing love handles. Start by lying on your side, supporting your body weight on one forearm with one foot stacked on top of the other. Lift your hips off the ground, aligning your head and heels in a straight line. Hold this position, feeling the deep engagement of the obliques and the lateral core muscles. Side planks not only help sculpt the waistline but also improve stability and posture.