Resistance bands are another way to strength train, but with the added benefit of only needing one piece of equipment. Using a resistance band makes it easier to target smaller muscles and can be used in all planes of motion, in all directions. While you can't spot reduce love handles, you can tone the area. For the best exercises for your love handles and core, grab your resistance band and get ready to sculpt some seriously strong abs.
Diagonal Woodchops
Loop the resistance band under your foot and hold both handles with both hands. Keep your hands together and reach them toward your left foot. With your arms straight, lift the band up and to the right in a diagonal, wood chopping motion. Use your torso to initiate the movement and rotation so that your legs and feet stay stationary. Switch sides and repeat.
Torso Rotation
Loop the resistance band around a stationary pole or beam at the height of your waistline. Grab both handles with both hands and stand sideways so your left shoulder is closest to the band. With your arms extended, keep them straight as you twist your torso to the right. Resist the urge to move just your arms, and instead initiate the move from your obliques. Keep your arms in line with your chest the entire time to ensure they aren't compensating for your core. Switch sides and repeat.
Side Bend
With both handles in your left hand, stand on the bottom of the resistance band with your left foot. Hold your right hand to your hip or behind your head. Lean over to the right, lengthening the left side of your body, and slowly return to the center with control. You should feel the left side of your waistline and love handle region working. Switch sides to work the right side.
Recommendations
Perform these exercises two to three days per week on nonconsecutive days. Start with two sets and gradually increase to three. Include 10 to 15 repetitions per exercise. If they become easy, increase resistance by using a thicker band, or for the side bend, decrease the length of the band between your foot and hand by stepping further up on the band. For added benefit, include cardiovascular activity two to three times per week to encourage fat loss in the regions that you're carrying fat the most.
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