Core Daily
Live Better
Q & A: Get Rid of Love Handles
Q: How can I get rid of my love handles? -- Ronald, Lake Tahoe, CA
A: With a cute name like "love handles," one might think they would be a desirable trait. Unfortunately, the fat on the sides of your abdominals are often the last to go when you're losing weight.
Some perspective: First, you did not get love handles overnight and chances are they won't go away overnight. Secondly, you can't simply "spot-tone" and do movements that focus on this specific area. Although it'll strengthen the ab muscles underneath, it won't get rid of the fat on top.
To lose your love handles, you need to reduce your overall body fat. That means focusing on your nutrition (check out 10 New Rules of Healthy Eating to master the basics) and training hard. Think you're already training hard enough? Ask yourself if you're been slacking off on either weight training or Energy System Development (ESD), or cardio, since even the most dedicated athletes often favor one or the other.
If you're not that into weight training, try planning at least some of your routine. Aim for eight to 12 repetitions for most exercises, and keep your rest periods between 30 and 90 seconds. Same goes for ESD. If you like jogging, ramp up your endurance training with this plan. Or start a customized program.
Questions?
Have a question you'd like answered? Join the conversation in Core Talk.
