If you’re looking to target your abs and love handles, it’s important to understand the anatomy of these muscle groups and how they function. The rectus abdominis, or “six-pack” muscle, is responsible for flexing the spine and bringing the ribcage towards the pelvis. The external obliques and internal obliques, located on either side of the rectus abdominis, are responsible for rotating and side-bending the torso.
The love handles, also known as the muffin top, are a common area of concern for many people. These are the areas of fat that sit above the hip bones and can make it difficult to achieve a toned, defined waistline. While exercise alone cannot spot-reduce fat, incorporating targeted exercises can help to strengthen and tone the underlying muscles, making it easier to achieve a leaner appearance.
Here are five of the best exercises for targeting abs and love handles:
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Plank
The plank is a simple yet effective exercise that targets the entire core, including the abs and love handles. To perform a plank, start in a push-up position with your arms extended and your hands directly under your shoulders. Engage your core and hold your body in a straight line from your head to your heels for as long as you can.
To make the exercise more challenging, try a side plank, which targets the obliques. Start in a regular plank position, then shift your weight onto one arm and stack your feet on top of each other. Lift your free arm towards the ceiling and hold the position for as long as you can before switching sides.
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Russian twist
The Russian twist is a classic ab exercise that targets the obliques and helps to tone love handles. Start by sitting on the floor with your knees bent and your feet flat on the ground. Lean back slightly and lift your feet off the ground, keeping your knees bent. Holding a weight or a medicine ball in front of your chest, twist your torso to the right, then to the left, tapping the weight on the ground each time.
To make the exercise more challenging, lift your feet higher off the ground or use a heavier weight.
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Bicycle crunches
Bicycle crunches are another effective exercise that targets both the abs and the obliques. Start by lying on your back with your hands behind your head and your knees bent. Lift your shoulders off the ground and bring your right elbow towards your left knee, while straightening your right leg. Repeat on the other side, bringing your left elbow towards your right knee.
To make the exercise more challenging, try holding a weight in your hands or lifting your feet off the ground.
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Side bends
Side bends are a simple yet effective exercise that targets the obliques. Start by standing with your feet hip-width apart and your arms at your sides. Keeping your back straight, bend to the side, reaching your hand towards your knee. Return to the starting position and repeat on the other side.
To make the exercise more challenging, hold a weight in one hand or perform the exercise with a resistance band.
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Mountain climbers
Mountain climbers are a high-intensity exercise that targets the abs and the obliques while also providing a cardiovascular workout. Start in a push-up position with your arms extended and your hands directly under your shoulders. Bring your right knee towards your chest, then quickly switch to bring your left knee towards your chest. Continue alternating legs as quickly as possible, as if you were running in place.
To make the exercise more challenging, try bringing your knees towards your opposite elbow or performing the exercise on a decline surface.
While these exercises can be effective for targeting abs and love handles, it’s important to also focus on overall fitness and healthy eating habits in order to see results.Incorporating cardio and strength training into your fitness routine can help you burn fat and build muscle, which can ultimately lead to a leaner, more toned appearance. In addition to targeted exercises for abs and love handles, consider incorporating exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups into your routine, which can help to engage multiple muscle groups at once and boost your overall fitness.
In terms of diet, it’s important to focus on nutrient-dense, whole foods and limit your intake of processed and high-sugar foods. Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates can help to support muscle growth and energy levels, while also keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Finally, it’s important to remember that achieving a smaller waist and toned abs and love handles takes time and consistency. Be patient with yourself and your body, and focus on making sustainable lifestyle changes that will support your health and fitness goals in the long term. With a balanced approach that includes targeted exercises, healthy eating, and regular physical activity, you can achieve the lean, toned physique you desire.
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