5 Bodyweight Exercises To lose Love Handles in 30 Days
Love handles, that stubborn fat around your midsection, can be frustrating. While spot reduction isn’t possible-meaning you can’t target fat loss in one specific area-you can strengthen and tone the muscles around your core to create a more sculpted physique. Here are five effective bodyweight exercises to incorporate into your routine to help reduce the appearance of love handles within 30 days, when combined with a healthy diet.
Russian Twists
- Sit on the floor with your knees bent and feet slightly elevated.
- Lean back slightly, keeping your back straight.
- Twist your torso from side to side, engaging your obliques.
- For an added challenge, hold a light weight (like a dumbbell or water bottle).
- Perform 3 sets of 15-20 reps per side.
Bicycle Crunches
- lie on your back with your knees bent and hands behind your head.
- Bring your right elbow towards your left knee while extending your right leg.
- Alternate sides, mimicking a bicycle pedaling motion.
- Focus on engaging your obliques with each twist.
- Perform 3 sets of 20-25 reps.
Kettlebell (or Dumbbell) Swings
- Start in a deadlift position with the kettlebell or dumbbell a few feet in front of you, feet wider than shoulder-width.
- Hike the weight back between your legs like a center in football, maintaining a straight back.
- Explosively drive your hips forward, swinging the weight up to chest height. Imagine propelling the weight forward.
- Keep your arms relaxed and let the momentum do the work.
- Perform 3 sets of 15 to 20 reps.
Cross-Body Mountain Climbers (Elevated)
Mountain climbers are a dynamic exercise that fire up your abs and shoulders,increasing your heart rate and burning calories.
- Assume a high plank position with your hands placed on a sturdy elevated surface like a countertop or bench.
- Quickly drive your right knee toward your left elbow, maintaining a stable core.
- Swiftly return to the plank position.
- Repeat the movement with your left knee towards your right elbow.
- Continue to alternate at a fast pace.
- Perform the exercise for 3 sets of 12 reps on each side.
Lateral Lunges With a Twist
The rotational movement in this exercise effectively works your obliques, contributing to a more defined waistline.
- Begin standing tall with your feet shoulder-width apart.
- Take a big step out to the right, lowering into a lateral lunge while keeping your back straight.
- While you sink into your right hip, rotate your torso to your right side.
- Return to the starting position.
- Repeat on the other side.
- Perform 3 sets of 10 reps on each side.
Critically important Note: these exercises are most effective when combined with a balanced diet and consistent cardiovascular exercise. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new workout routine.
Alexa Mellardo
Alexa is a freelance writer, editor, and content strategist based in Greenwich, CT. She has 11+ years of experience covering wellness, fitness, food, travel, lifestyle, and home. Read more about Alexa









