Fitness expert explains four exercises that can help you burn love ‘handle’ fat

A fitness expert has shared four simple exercises that can help burn off love handles – the fatty areas on either side of the waist above the hips.

They occur as a result of fat accumulation around the hips and abdominal area and are a common aesthetic concern for many people. The TikTok hashtag #HowToGetRidOfLoveHandles alone has racked up 48.8 million views, indicating just how many people are keen to reduce their love handles.

Leon Bolmeer, fitness guru and director of Geezer’s Boxing, has crafted a specific workout that targets love handles, aiding individuals in achieving a more streamlined waistline. This routine is designed to be carried out 2-3 times per week, with at least one rest day in between. The goal is to complete three rounds of this circuit, with 30 seconds of rest between exercises and a 1-minute break between rounds, reports Bristol Live.

Russian twists

Russian twists may sound intimidating, but they’re a fantastic exercise if you’re looking to shed excess fat around your waist and tone your abdomen. To perform them, simply sit on the floor with your knees bent and feet flat, then lean back slightly while keeping your core engaged (imagine drawing your belly button towards your spine).

Next, twist your torso from side to side, reaching your hands towards the ground on either side (but don’t touch it), and remember to keep your legs lifted if you want an extra challenge. Do 15 reps per side

Plank with knee crunches

Most of us have attempted a plank and are well aware of its challenges. Adding knee crunches to the mix elevates the exercise and its benefits to a whole new level. However, this exercise is relatively straightforward. Assume a high plank position (similar to a press-up but resting on your elbows).

Once in position, draw one knee towards your chest, slightly twisting your torso to meet it. Then, extend your knee back out and repeat with the other leg. That’s one rep. Aim for 10 reps on each side.

Side plank with hip dips

The plank is an adaptable exercise, and adding a side plank with hip dips to this circuit will significantly boost your chances of diminishing love handles. To start this exercise, lie on your side with your elbow directly beneath your shoulder. Then, elevate your hips so your body forms a straight line before slightly lowering your hips.

You’ll feel the squeeze in your obliques, and when you do, it’s time to push back up. Do 10 reps on each side.

Burpees

Burpees are a staple in many workout routines, and that’s because they’re one of the most effective ways to get a solid cardio workout and burn calories without needing any equipment or leaving the comfort of your own home.

To complete a burpee, start standing, squat down, jump your hands out to a high plank position, do a proper press-up (or a modified one on your knees if needed), jump your feet back in, stand up, and then add a jump to finish off the move. That’s one rep. Do 10 burpees.