Want to get rid of your love handles? Professional trainer Brooke Geffre has shared a simple but effective workout to help you burn off that extra fat around your core. Let’s dive in!
Getting rid of that stubborn fat on the sides of your body, often called love handles or muffin tops, is notoriously tough. Trimming and toning your obliques can be one of the hardest parts of your body to train.
While exercise is crucial for shaping your body, diet plays an equally important role. The phrase “abs are made in the kitchen” rings true, especially for stubborn areas like love handles. However, incorporating specific exercises can give you better results.
Here are five exercises recommended by Orangetheory Fitness trainer Brooke Geffre to help you finally lose those love handles.
**1. Planks with Knee Tucks**
Planks are great for your core, but tough on those love handles! Start on your right elbow with your waist about a foot off the ground and your right foot slightly in front of your left. Keep your core tight as you bring your right knee towards your chest and touch it to your left elbow. Return to the plank position and repeat. Aim for three sets of 10 to 12 reps on each side.
**2. Medicine Ball Leg Drops**
Get ready for a burn! Lie flat on the ground with your arms spread out by your sides. Place a comfortable weight of a medicine ball between your legs. Lift your legs off the floor in a tabletop position, then drop your knees to one side while keeping most of your back on the floor. Shift your legs to the other side and repeat. This works your lower abs, love handles, and inner thighs. Do three sets of 10 to 12 reps.
**3. Bridge**
The bridge exercise targets your love handles, abs, and glutes. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Raise your hips off the floor, pause at the top, then slowly lower back down. To make it more challenging, place a weight on your pelvis area and repeat the motion. Complete four sets of 10 to 15 reps.
**4. Dumbbell Side Bends**
Start standing with a set of dumbbells you’re comfortable with in each hand. Keep your back straight and bend to your right side as if you’re reaching for the ground with the dumbbell. Switch to the left side and repeat. Aim for at least three sets of 20 reps on each side.
**5. Seated Russian Twists**
You’ll need a dumbbell you’re comfortable with for this one. Sit on your butt with your knees slightly bent and feet off the ground. Lean your torso back slightly to balance on your butt. Hold the weight and twist it from side to side about 50 times or for around a minute.
This spring, take control of your health and embrace your body. Combining this workout with a proper diet and an active lifestyle will strengthen your core and boost your energy. Ready to lose those love handles? Let’s get started!