posted 02-17-2003 05:35 PM            

This is actually a question from my hubby. He's in overall really good shape. Doesn't smoke, doesn't drink and doesn't over-eat (pretty much avoids junk food as well).

He goes to the gym 3x a week but is having problems losing his love handles. They aren't massive by any means (he's in really good shape like I said). Anyway, does anybody here have any advice/info for him...exercise wise for him? Toning? More cardio? He has the "6-pack"...just wants to lose the bits on the sides!

Thanks so much!!

posted 02-17-2003 10:13 PM            

In general, I tell people to get the six pack abs, etc...that diet is the most major factor. This sounds like a different case and that it is a small area that is an issue...not a general one.

When he does his abs, does he do obliques as well? He needs to integrate the oblique exercises in and also serratus pulls. Some might tell you that no amount of these types of exercises will lose the "love handles" but they can...my own hubby has seen a difference. He does the following (in addition to regular ab exercises - such as crunches):
- Use a rotary torso machine. Work one side at a time. If you don't know what machine I am referring to, ask your gym manager or trainer.
- Using a back extension bench (again, ask if you don't know), you can do oblique crunches. Laying on your side, lift your upper body up towards the sky. This is a small movement. It can also be done on a ball or even on the floor with your legs lifted up on something.
- Serratus pulls can be done on a cable or with a free weight. I put the pulley at the very bottom and stand on a low bench/step (8-12"). Position the bench or step as close to the cable as possible. Grasping handle, slowly bend to opposite side (almost to your knee) while holding the cable in opposite hand (you are bending to the side that is not holding the cable). It is very important that you don't bend the arm that is pulling the cable so that you are only using your serratus to pull. Do both sides. If using a free weight, be sure the weight is heavy enough to have impact. This is an "old school" exercise that I don't see many people doing anymore which is a shame because it works great!

All the ab and oblique exercises can help change the shape of the entire torso, which can help with the love handle issue.

I can say that although this has helped my husband lose his handles, it may not work for everyone. Some people simply get an accumulation of fat cells in one area that can only be helped by liposuction (I am NOT advocating cosmetic surgery).