Love handles can be a pain! Since the excess fat in this case is deposited around the sides of your abdominal area, no amount of crunching and squatting is going to get rid of it. You’ll have to bring out the big guns. See how to get rid of love handles and tone up your body with these four easy steps. And all it takes is 10 minutes every day. Read on and get started.

Things you’ll need:

1. A two-kg dumbbell

2. Yoga mat

Step 1: 40 Woodchoppers — 3 minutes

Imagine yourself as a powerful woodchopper, cutting down timber. Bring up the dumbbell with both hands to your left shoulder. Stand with legs apart and shift your weight to the left leg as if getting ready to strike an axe. Now, twist and bring down your arms to the right knee in a chopping motion. Repeat sets of 20 on both sides.

Step 2: 50 Russian Twists — 3 minutes

Russian twists are the best way to work on your obliques, the muscles that help move the torso. Sit on your mat at an angle of 45 degrees. Your knees should be bent and feet should not touch the ground. Hold the dumbbell with both hands and twist your torso to the right, till your right arm almost touches the floor. Now, shift the weight to the left and repeat 50 times. Keep your legs raised for the entire session.

Step 3: 30 Side Plank Crunches — 2 minutes

Lie down on your left side and lift your torso and legs with your left elbow and forearm in a side plank position. Now, keep your right foot steady and raise your left leg. Bend your knee to touch your elbow. Repeat sets of 15 for each side.

Step 4: 30 Bicycle Crunches — 2 minutes

Rest your back on the mat while keeping your shoulders and legs elevated. Put your hands behind your head and bend your knees. Now, twist your body so that the left knee touches the right elbow. Do sets of 15 for each side in a quick motion as if riding a bicycle.

With these exercises, you can tone your obliques. But the overall reduction of fat is possible only through regular cardio and a good diet. Add a 30-minute cardio session thrice a week for best results. Eat lots of fruits and fresh veggies to help burn excess fat. Here’s how you can maintain a good diet without stressing out.

Exercise recommendations from Health.com

All photos courtesy: Pinterest