Issue Date: October 12, 2008
How you can get rid of those love handles
Here are two exercises to get you started.
Many people work obliques -- the abdominal muscles that run along each side of your body -- to get rid of love handles. Strengthening the oblique muscles also helps you blast belly bulge by tightening the lower abdominal area and pulling it up. Plus, strong obliques protect the lower back from injuries, aiding in movements that require bending and twisting. Try these exercises; do two sets of 12 reps on each side.
Exercise 1: Russian twist with medicine ball
1. Lie on a stability ball, holding a medicine ball; keep your knees bent, feet about shoulder-width apart. As you hold the ball with your palms facing each other, extend your arms away from your chest and rotate your torso as far as possible to one side.
2. Turn slowly to the other side, keeping your arms straight the entire time. Inhale in the middle of the movement and exhale into each twist. (Count one rep at each turn.)
Exercise 2: Upward woodchopper on stability ball
1. Secure a resistance band at foot level, using a door attachment (comes with most bands). Sit on the ball and place your feet in front of you about hip-width apart. Grip the handle with both hands, keeping your chest upright and your back and arms straight.
2. Inhale before you begin, then exhale as you pull the handle up toward your shoulder by twisting your obliques. Return back to the starting point.
|
