by Joan Inong

Created on: December 30, 2008

Love handles are notoriously difficult to get rid of. They can bulge over pants and they can be part of an ever-growing belly. They have created new phrases, such as "muffin top." However, with a few tips and tricks, you can get rid of love handles. It might take a bit of patience and hard work, but in the end, it will all be worth it.

1. The hula hoop

The hula hoop might be considered just a child's toy, but it can help you keep your mid-section in shape. You will need a hula hoop that is quite big, so that it will give you a greater challenge. If you get one that's too small, you won't gain anything from it. Do the hula hoop for at least thirty minutes a day. I like to do it while watching television. Sometimes I'll try to make time records that I try to break the next day. This keeps the activity fun.

2. Side crunches

Side crunches are definitely the best route to take when you want to get rid of love handles fast. I don't recommend doing them daily, however. You should let your muscles rest so that they'll recuperate and you will be able to do more crunches the next time around. If you don't let your muscles rest, you'll risk pulling or breaking something. Always start with a small number and work your way up. I find that starting with 25 (if you haven't done crunches in a while or if you're just beginning) is best.

3. Knee touches

This is a standing-up version of a classic exercise routine. All you have to do is stand up straight, and, bringing one knee up towards your chest, bring your opposite elbow and let it touch that knee. So, if you were bringing your left knee up, then touch it with your right elbow. Repeat with the other side. Alternate for about five minutes, and add more time as you go along. Remember, though, to keep your stomach tight so that you aren't straining your back.

4. Running

Running is the most basic of exercises, and it's one of the best if you want to lose your love handles. It does, however, get rid of fat everywhere, so you can't "spot train" (actually, you can't really spot train with many exercises). That said, it's best that you run anyway, even if you're not trying to target your love handles.

So, try out the four tips above and I'm sure that you will soon see your love handles shrink, if not completely disappear. I do encourage you, however, to keep up the exercise once you start. If you don't, your love handles might make a comeback.

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