Although we call them love handles, there’s nothing really lovable about the excess fat sitting by your sides. This is why we so desperately search for ways through which we can learn how to lose love handles. Naturally, the safest and most efficient way to slim down is through physical exercise. And, lo and behold, there are plenty of workouts which specifically aim to ‘melt away’ at your irritating muffin top. Gear up with your fitness outfit, your water bottle, and any other accessories and get ready to start the routine that will make your love handles go poof!
How to Lose Love Handles: 4 Workouts
#1 Side Plank Crunch
On a yoga mat, position yourself on your right elbow and put your left foot slightly in front of your other one. Then, while tightening your core, move your right knee toward your chest while crunching your left elbow. Return to your side plank position and then repeat the exercise in three sets of 10-12 sequences.
Click here to see a video tutorial.
#2 TRX Body Saw
You’ll need a TRX for this, so you have no choice but to go to the gym, sadly.
With your feet properly positioned in the stirrup straps, plank on your elbows. Afterward, start pulling your toes toward your shins while simultaneously lifting your rear in the air in order to form an inverted V shape. Digging your elbows into the ground and constantly keeping your core tense, return to your initial position. Basically, mimic the movement of a caterpillar or a worm.
Click here to see a video tutorial.
#3 Kettlebell Swings
First, start by squatting down to pick up the kettlebell. Mike Krajewski, PT, CSCS, and owner of MK Fitness in Nashville, TN tells you how to do it the right way.
“Aggressively contract your glutes without hyperextending your lumbar spine and drive the kettlebell up to shoulder-height (or higher),” he says. “Focus on maintaining a strong straight back and brace your abdominals on the lowering phase of the swing.” The point of the exercise is to not use your arms and instead focus the tension into your hips.
Click here to see a video tutorial.
#4 Slider Mountain Climbers
Pretty standard stuff. Start in a basic plank position on a slider and then start drawing your knees toward your chest, one at a time. Krajewski says that you can even swap the slider for hand towels or paper plates on hardwood floor. If you really want to challenge your muscles and to add some extra dynamism to this exercise, alternate between the speed and intensity of your climber movements. Make three sets of approximately 30-40 seconds of workout with just as many seconds of breathing in-between.
Click here to see a video tutorial.
Wrapping Up
And that was how to lose love handles in four exercises. Whether they’re simple or not all depends on your own body and how active you usually are. But as a whole, there should be something for everyone on this list – beginners and veterans alike. After all, the purpose is just to lose those muffin tops, right?