Exercises To Lose Belly Fat & Love Handles Fast

The key to losing fat in the midsection can seem like a mystery if your abdominal workouts are ineffective. One common mistake is focusing only on the areas you want to tone, such as the lower belly or waist. There is no such thing as spot reduction. Toning the midsection requires workouts that stimulate all angles of the abs and core. Performing abdominal exercises that recruit the abs, external obliques and lower back can help you lose belly fat fast.

Roll-outs

Roll-outs work all of the muscles in the core while targeting the upper and lower abs. Start on your knees with your elbows resting on a stability ball. Slowly roll the ball forward with your elbows until your body is at an angle. Your knees should remain on the floor. Squeeze your abs and keep your back straight. Slowly roll the ball backward and return to the starting position. Repeat for four sets of 25 repetitions.

Side Planks

Side planks engage the core while focusing on the external obliques. Lie on your side with your elbow supporting your upper body and legs straight. Lift your hips off the floor so your weight is supported by your elbow and feet. Hold this position for 45 seconds. Perform three sets on each side.

Crunches with a Leg Raise

Doing crunches with a leg raise recruits the upper and lower abs at the same time. Lie on your back with your legs straight and hands behind your head. Squeeze your abs and lift your shoulder blades off the ground while lifting your legs up to a 90-degree angle. Slowly lower your legs and upper body to the starting position. Repeat for four sets of 25 repetitions.

Side Crunch

Side crunches stimulate the external obliques. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Place your hands behind your head. Tilt your knees to the left at a 45-degree angle. Squeeze your abs and raise your shoulder blades off the floor. Slowly lower your upper body toward the ground, but don't allow your shoulder blades to completely rest on the floor. Repeat for four sets of 25 repetitions.